In a clear and candid stance, Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket stalwart, has shed light on the intricate process of squad selection for the upcoming Asia Cup and ICC World Cup 2023. With the announcement of India’s roster for the Asia Cup 2023 revealing the return of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, along with the omission of Yuzvendra Chahal, Rohit Sharma, accompanied by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, addressed the media, setting the record straight on the selection dynamics and intentions of the Indian team.
The Indian squad announcement for the Asia Cup 2023 generated significant buzz, not only due to the inclusion of Rahul and Iyer but also due to Chahal’s absence from the lineup. While Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel are set to spearhead India’s spin attack in the Asia Cup, Chahal’s non-inclusion sparked discussions. However, Rohit Sharma reassured that the door remains open for Chahal and other spinners who weren’t chosen for the Asia Cup squad.
In a press conference, Rohit Sharma clarified that decisions weren’t made in isolation and that the team management, including himself and Rahul Dravid, has been transparent in communicating the reasons for players’ exclusions. Addressing the selection challenges, Rohit emphasized, “While picking the best combination, there will be guys who will miss out for various reasons and Rahul bhai (Dravid) and I have tried our best to explain to the players why they are not in the squad.”
Rohit Sharma underlined the principle that personal preferences do not dictate selection or omission. He clarified that captaincy decisions are made based on the team’s best interests, stating, “It’s not like, I don’t like this person, so I am dropping him. Captaincy is not based on personal likes and dislikes. If anyone misses out, there is a reason for it. If you are the unlucky one, we can do nothing.”
Expressing empathy for players who might have faced disappointment, Rohit Sharma shared his own experience of being left out of the World Cup squad in 2011. Reflecting on his journey, he acknowledged the emotional aspect of such decisions, saying, “Sometimes, I try and put myself in their shoes. When I wasn’t picked in 2011, it was such a heart-breaking moment for me and I felt what’s left after being dropped from a World Cup squad?”
Despite facing a minor injury concern, KL Rahul finds his place in the 17-member squad for the Asia Cup, with Sanju Samson serving as his backup. The Indian team, aiming to commence the Asia Cup campaign on a strong note, is set to take on arch-rivals Pakistan in their opening match. As the cricketing world awaits these high-stakes tournaments, Rohit Sharma’s insight into the selection process provides a glimpse into the meticulous approach and the factors considered when forming the national squad.