Wasim Jaffer. Photo- Twitter
Wasim Jaffer. Photo- Twitter

Wasim Jaffer has advocated for Hanuma Vihari to be dropped from India’s Test squad in favour of 2022 Ranji Trophy top scorer Sarfaraz Khan. The former opener offered his thoughts on all-rounder Shardul Thakur’s chances of making the team.

India will have to be satisfied with a 2-2 series draw after slumbering to a seven-wicket loss in the postponed fifth Test against England. Vihari, who only recently earned the No. 3 spot for himself, only scored 31 runs in this match and is already facing calls to be removed.

Sarfaraz Khan
Sarfaraz Khan. Image: Twitter

Wasim Jaffer also requested that Gill bat in the middle order and stated that Thakur, while playing poorly, needed to be given a little more support. According to Jaffer, ESPNcricinfo

“Sarfaraz Khan, who is awaiting involvement and has been in excellent form in the Ranji Trophy, will undoubtedly make things difficult for Vihari.”

Hanuma Vihari. Photo-Getty
Hanuma Vihari. Photo-Getty

“In the middle of the lineup, Shubman Gill should be tried. Although he has potential, the opening place might not be the best fit for him. In addition, I do not believe Shardul Thakur needs to be dropped after just one game” Wasim Jaffer said.

‘The chances of making it to the WTC final are now low’: Wasim Jaffer

India suffered its second consecutive defeat-overseas after a disappointing performance in South Africa late last year. Due to their sluggish over rate in this match, the team also lost two more World Test Championship (WTC) points and fell to No. 4 in the standings. Wasim Jaffer acknowledged that the odds of making it to the final are slim right now.

India Cricket Team
India Cricket Team. Image: Twitter

“Yes. Because of the outcomes, it seems difficult because they have been. India would not play in many Test matches either.”

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Australia will visit India for a four-match Test series as part of the Future Tour Program. Before that, they will play a three-match T20I series against Jos Buttler’s England, beginning on July 7.

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