IND vs AUS: Ruturaj Gaikwad's treatment compels former India chief selector to intervene, massive uprise

Krishnamachari Srikkanth, former Indian cricketer and the 1983 World Cup winner, took aim at the Ajit Agarkar-headed Indian selection committee for the surprising exclusion of Ruturaj Gaikwad from India’s Test and T20I squads for the upcoming tours of Australia and South Africa.

Gaikwad, who has dazzled audiences with a series of remarkable performances in domestic cricket, was shockingly sidelined for the marquee five-match Test series against Australia and the highly anticipated four-match T20I series against South Africa.

Krishnamachari Srikkanth slams selectors for snubbing Ruturaj Gaikwad from India’s Test and T20I squads

Ajit Agarkar and the national selectors’ decision left fans and critics questioning the logic behind the dropping, as Gaikwad deserved to be picked in the Indian cricket team. His recent century in the ongoing Ranji Trophy 2024-25 for Maharashtra against Mumbai and dominant displays in the Duleep Trophy 2024 only added to the calls for his inclusion.

Yet, instead of representing the national cricket team, Ruturaj Gaikwad has been assigned to lead India A against Australia A in the tour games, and many were baffled by this move, including the former Indian chief selector.

Srikkanth expressed his confusion and frustration over the handling of Ruturaj Gaikwad, questioning why selectors continue to overlook his evident talent and performances. He felt baffled by the inconsistent approach toward Gaikwad, wondering why he isn’t given a stronger role in international cricket.

What more does he need to prove?: Srikkanth’s outburst over Ruturaj Gaikwad’s continues exclusion

Expressing sympathy for Gaikwad, Srikkanth pointed out that the batter has been kept out of the T20I setup despite his back-to-back first-class centuries, which left him uncertain about where he stands in Team India's plans.

Krishnamachari Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel, “I don't understand it at all. When they say that Mayank Yadav, he bowled for a few overs, and now he has also become unfit like Shivam Dube and Riyan Parag. For Ruturaj, I don't understand at all. Poor fellow! What will he do?

If he scores a century, then they can take him back into the T20I squad, right? He scored two first-class centuries but still didn't get a chance. He got scores to back him up. Where should that guy be going now?”

The former World Cup winner further questioned why Gaikwad has been playing for India A or the Rest of India but missing out on opportunities at the international level.

What's the plan for Ruturaj Gaikwad?

He added that it is unfair to restrict his opportunities to domestic and A-team assignments instead of allowing him to prove himself in the main squad despite his consistent efforts and runs in domestic cricket.

Srikkanth further noted, “Abhimanyu Easwaran's performance has been brilliant. I'm not questioning that. But what are you doing with Ruturaj? Why aren't they twirling around with him? What's the plan? Let them do what they want with him. Just look at the mindset of that kid and tell me what he should be doing in this match against you guys.

He keeps on hitting the opponents all day long, but then, when it comes to international cricket, you leave him behind. And when they give him a chance, it's for the rest of India, or India A.”