The recent struggles of the Indian Test team, culminating in a home series whitewash against South Africa, have ignited a debate about the selection process and the apparent sidelining of Ranji Trophy stars. While Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar faces criticism for overlooking players like Sarfaraz Khan and Abhimanyu Easwaran, a former selector suggests that the issue might stem from a lack of trust from head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill in these players.
The Indian team's reliance on all-rounders who don't provide enough value is a growing concern. Following the 0-2 series loss to South Africa, specialists could be making a comeback to the Indian Test squad, with the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel expected to rethink its approach to key positions, especially the crucial No. 3 slot.
For years, Rahul Dravid and Cheteshwar Pujara secured the position. However, with Karun Nair, who had four Tests in England, and Sai Sudharsan, averaging 27 across 11 innings, unable to claim it, the spot is now wide open.
Ruturaj Gaikwad is seen as a strong contender for the No. 3 role, averaging over 45 in 43 first-class matches. With two centuries and a 90-plus score in this Ranji Trophy season and leadership experience in the IPL, he is viewed as someone with the right temperament. Rajat Patidar, despite a lukewarm start in Tests, remains in the mix. He is recovering from injury but has been in exceptional domestic form over the past two seasons and averages above 45 in 74 first-class games. Rinku Singh also presents a strong case with a near-60 first-class average across 52 matches.
Sarfaraz Khan's exclusion continues to be a talking point. Despite a strong domestic record, including a century against New Zealand, he has struggled to find a consistent place in the national side. While some reports suggest concerns about his fitness and technique in overseas conditions, others point to a lack of opportunities to prove himself. After the Australia tour, he was injured and unable to play, making it difficult to judge his form.
Abhimanyu Easwaran, another consistent performer in domestic cricket, has also been overlooked. Despite being in the Test squad, he has not been given many opportunities. Recent scores of 0, 71*, 20, 25, 0, and 0 have not helped his case.
A former selector stated that while people may blame Agarkar's panel for overlooking Sarfaraz and Easwaran, selection also hinges on whether head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill trust those players. "If they don't, what can Ajit alone do?" he said.
Gautam Gambhir's emphasis on domestic cricket and competitive game practice is well-known. However, his preference for all-rounders and perceived inconsistent team selection have drawn criticism. Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has openly criticized Gambhir's "chop-and-change" approach, questioning the omission of consistent performers like Axar Patel.
Shubman Gill, the new Test captain, has faced scrutiny for his captaincy and batting form. While he has the backing of the team management, some experts believe that he needs more experience before leading the national side.
The selection controversies have led to questions about the selectors' criteria and whether they prioritize IPL performances over Ranji Trophy performances. Some feel that selectors should consider players' performances in domestic cricket's top tournaments, such as the Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, when choosing players for Test and ODI teams.
