MSK Prasad Opens Up About the Test Future of Shikhar Dhawan

Shikhar Dhawan was dropped from the Test squad when the chief selector, MSK Prasad-led selection panel announced the team for the two-match Test series against the Windies.

Prasad reveals Dhawan’s exclusion

Shikhar Dhawan’s rich form in Asia Cup 2018 did not favour him when the selectors sat down to name the Test squad, as the left-handed batsman failed to make the cut.

However, in the four Tests in England, Shikhar Dhawan only scored 162 runs at an average of 20.25 without a single half-century. James Anderson along with Woakes and Curran troubled the southpaw in those conditions.

“It is really surprising that a batsman who can rule in white-ball cricket finds it difficult to replicate the same in red-ball cricket,” MSK Prasad told The Indian Express. “He is a treat to watch in any format of the game. Unfortunately, we had to take this tough decision after giving him considerable opportunities. At the same time, we can say that if Dhawan is willing to put in the hard yards required for the longer format, the gates are definitely open for him.” Prasad added.

Moreover, Wriddhiman Saha is still not fully recovered from his shoulder surgery.

However, Shah was replaced by Rishab Pant who made his debut in England and scored a century in his third Test. MSK Prasad said Pant needs to improve a lot with the gloves but have some faith in the youngster who can be a part of the team against Australia in December.

“We all know what Rishabh is capable of as a batsman. He can make a very big impact at No.6 or 7 for our Test team,” said Prasad, who played six Tests and 17 ODIs for India between 1998 and 2000.  “When it comes to wicketkeeping, he has some way to go. We are monitoring his progress in that aspect. We had requested the BCCI to get Rishabh to fine-tune his wicketkeeping skills at the NCA.

“He is now working hard there under the watchful eyes of specialist coaches like Kiran More and Abhay Sharma. We all wish that he quickly fine-tunes his skills and comes good with his wicketkeeping too. If he can do that, it will be a huge advantage for our Test team, especially while playing abroad.” MSK Prasad said.

India will play the first Test against the Windies from October 4 (Thursday) in Rajkot.