Should they or should they not include Rohit Sharma in the squad for the New Zealand Tests at home? That will be the major subject of debate as the Indian selectors sit to pick the team. As clearly evident in Sri Lanka, Rohit has been completely out of form. However, it is also a fact that he is seen as a future Test cricketer, who could have a long run with the Indian team. With Rahul Dravid hanging up his boots and with India playing their next few Tests at home, it would be a good opportunity to help Rohit gain some confidence.
The other bone of contention would be the selection of veteran middle-order batsman VVS Laxman. Both in England and Australia, he clearly looked jaded. But, with Dravid having just retired from the game, India cannot afford to lose Laxman so quickly. Since the upcoming Tests would be played at home, Laxman should find it easier. At the same time, he will have to perform to potential and also play a role in guiding the youngsters in the team. There is one school of thought which states that Laxman’s presence is denying another youngster a deserved opportunity. Again, it is also true that rookies cannot just be thrown into the deep end.
While on the topic of youngsters, following his excellent performances in Australia, Virat Kohli will without doubt retain his place. The fact that he has been in such supreme touch in the shorter formats of the sport should only boost his confidence going into the series against New Zealand, who were battered badly by West Indies in the Caribbean. If he continues in a similar fashion against the Kiwis, the visitors’ bowlers will be in for a really tough time.
Another batsman who deserves his chance is Cheteshwar Pujara. With Dravid out of the picture, Pujara should step into his big shoes. The slightly built batsman was always touted as the possible replacement to India’s legendary number three in the Indian team, and will now finally get his chance. Having recovered from his injury, and having played some stellar knocks during India A’s disappointing tour of the West Indies, Pujara should be looking forward to the New Zealand challenge. Although Pujara isn’t new to international cricket, his match-winning knock against the Aussies came two seasons back, so he’ll have to start afresh.
With India looking forward to Gen Next, Ajinkya Rahane could also get a berth. The rest of the players barring Ishant Sharma, who is still injured, pretty much pick themselves. Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir should continue as openers while Sachin Tendulkar will return to international cricket after an extended break, and some political experience. In the bowling department, Zaheer Khan apart, Ravichandran Ashwin, Pragyan Ojha and Umesh Yadav should make the cut.
It remains to be seen whether the selectors have any surprises in store.
--By A Cricket Analyst
