(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] India captain Rohit Sharma did not mince his words when asked about criteria for Test selection, stating that there is no place for players in the team who lack hunger.
Rohit’s comments follows criticism coming Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer’s way for not playing in the Ranji Trophy 2023-24. While Kishan instead is featuring in the DY Patil T20 tournament, Iyer has conveyed to his state team that he is unfit despite NCA asserting that he is not injured.
“This (Test cricket) is the toughest format. And if you want success and want to excel in this tough format, then you need that hunger. It is very important. We will give opportunities only to players who have that hunger,” Rohit said as quoted in the post-match presser after India’s win in Ranchi.
“You come to know the players who don’t have that hunger, players who don’t want to stay here. We come to know that. Players who have that hunger, players who want to stay here and perform, play in tough conditions, we will give preference to them. It is pretty simple; if you don’t have hunger, there’s no meaning in playing such players.
“At present I don’t see anyone who doesn’t have that hunger. Those who are here in the squad and even those who are not here — every one of them wants to play. But the opportunities at this level come very few times. If you don’t utilise them, then you lose that chance. We all have experienced that. So those players who utilise the opportunities, who make the team win, who perform for the team, obviously that is noted. That is very important.”
Notably, on Monday, India clinched the series versus England, gaining an unassailable lead of 3-1. After England spinner put India under pressure, Shubman Gill and Dhruv Jurel rose above pressure, taking India to a crucial victory.
The next fixture will commence in Dharamsala on March 7.