Mayank Yadav's inclusion in the Indian T20I Team too early? Dinesh Karthik delivers a blunt verdict

Former Indian wicketkeeper batter Dinesh Karthik opened up about fast bowler Mayank Yadav's inclusion in the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh. Dinesh Karthik said that Mayank Yadav deserves to receive his maiden India call-up despite his limited experience in domestic cricket and the IPL.

On Saturday, September 28, the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced a 15-member squad for the home T20I series against Bangladesh. Mayank Yadav received his maiden call-up from the national cricket team after impressing everyone with his pace during the IPL 2024 season.

Mayank made his debut for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the IPL 2024. The right-arm fast bowler grabbed attention by clocking 155 km/h consistently before sustaining an injury. He also bowled the fastest delivery (156.7 km/h) of the IPL 2024 season against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

Very Excited For Mayank Yadav - Dinesh Karthik

During a chat on Cricbuzz, Dinesh Karthik was asked about Mayank Yadav's inclusion in the Indian T20I squad. Karthik pointed out that fast bowlers have a shorter career span compared to batters. He said that the selectors should maximize their potential by providing them with chances.

"For fast bowlers, I always feel you have to make an exception. They are a rare breed and when you see talent, when you see a certain skill package, their shelf life will probably not be as much as a batter," Karthik told Cricbuzz.

"So, make best use of them, give them the best facilities. They are always a very rare gem to get and if you spot one, hold on to it. And Mayank Yadav definitely falls under that category. I'm very excited for him," he added.

Love The Look Of This New Squad - Dinesh Karthik

Dinesh Karthik also shared his thoughts on India’s T20I squad for the series against Bangladesh. He praised Ajit Agarkar and Gautam Gambhir for picking a next-generation team. The cricketer-turned-commentator said the selectors intentionally excluded players from the current Test squad.

"I really love the look of this new squad. Well done to Ajit Agarkar and Gautam Gambhir for putting together a squad that looks like the next-gen squad. They have consciously not taken anybody from the current Test team, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, because they're saying, 'Take a break, we want you fresh for New Zealand and then the five Test matches to follow in Australia.'"

"The message is loud and clear. So, this team looks like the one that will play in this series and the four T20s that's going to be happening in South Africa for a start. And I love the young look of this team. It's got some seriously exciting talent. I can't wait for them to get on the park and show the world the kind of skills that they've got."

Team India is currently facing Bangladesh in the second and final Test match at Green Park in Kanpur. The T20I series will commence on October 6 at the New Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium in Gwalior. Delhi and Hyderabad will host the remaining matches on October 9 and 12, respectively.

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