Kevin Pietersen Mocks Indian Team-Management For Ignoring Rishabh Pant

Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen has taken a sly dig at Indian team-management ahead of the game between India and England. Just like many, Kevin Pietersen also seems to be baffled with the way India have constantly ignored Rishabh Pant and backed Vijay Shankar in the ongoing World Cup. Vijay Shankar was a surprising inclusion in the World Cup squad ahead of Pant.

However, he could not break into the playing eleven straightaway. It was only after Shikhar Dhawan was ruled out of the competition and KL Rahul had to be promoted as an opener. the team-management included Shankar in the team. But Shankar has failed to deliver as per expectations so far. Barring his two wickets against Pakistan, Shankar has not quite managed to do well.

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But the team-management has surprisingly backed him throughout. Consequently, Rishabh Pant as well Dinesh Karthik have not got a chance in the playing so far. Pant, who replaced Shikhar Dhawan in the squad, has had a stunning IPL season where he helped Delhi Capitals make it to the playoffs. The youngster, who has been making all the right noises since his Test debut last year, showed remarkable maturity in this IPL.

The team-management, however, seems to be in no hurry to include Pant in the team. And as India gear up to take on England, Kevin Pietersen posted a sarcastic tweet. The legendary batsman sarcastically asked the Indian team not to drop Shankar and not even think about Pant.

“Dear Virat & Ravi – please don’t drop Vijay Shankar. I think he’s coming into his own and would potentially win you tomorrow’s game. Don’t think about Pant. He needs another 3 weeks prep before I think he can get into your World Cup side. Thanks, boys!,” wrote Kevin Pietersen.

Dear Virat & Ravi – please don’t drop Vijay Shankar.
I think he’s coming into his own and would potentially win you tomorrow’s game.
Don’t think about Pant. He needs another 3 weeks prep before I think he can get into your World Cup side.

Thanks, boys!

— Kevin Pietersen? (@KP24) June 29, 2019

India, meanwhile, have all but sealed their semifinal spot. With 11 points from 6 games, they are currently second in the points table. A win against England on Sunday will seal their semifinal spot.

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