Former India Captain Questions Team Selection: “Where is Axar? Who Said All-Rounders Must Be Fast Bowlers?”

Former Indian captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth has raised serious concerns over the balance of Team India’s ODI squad. Speaking after India’s defeat against New Zealand in Rajkot, Srikkanth also pointed to Ravindra Jadeja’s inability to take wickets as a key factor behind the loss.

Srikkanth Questions Squad Balance

Srikkanth questioned the absence of left-arm spinner Axar Patel in the squad, asking why the definition of an all-rounder seems restricted to fast bowlers. As a former chief selector, he criticized the team management’s handling of Jadeja’s current form and limited bowling opportunities for Nitish Kumar Reddy. He also highlighted India’s lack of a sixth bowling option, which he believes contributed to the defeat.

Jadeja “Confused About His Role”

On his YouTube channel, Srikkanth commented sharply on Jadeja’s performance:

“Jadeja seems unsure what he should do. He’s caught between attacking deliveries and flighted bowling. It’s affecting the whole bowling unit.”

Jadeja went wicketless in eight overs, conceding 44 runs, which put additional pressure on the other bowlers. Srikkanth stressed that despite Jadeja being one of his favorite bowlers, this confusion is costing the team dearly.

All-Rounders Can Include Spinners Too

Srikkanth strongly questioned why the team couldn’t play with three spinners and three fast bowlers, pointing out there’s no rule that a bowling all-rounder must be a pacer.

“Replacing Hardik Pandya isn’t easy. You can’t do that. In this context, Axar Patel would have been the ideal candidate,” he said.

He also criticized the team’s decision to bowl only two overs to Nitish Kumar Reddy, stressing that the lack of a sixth bowling option left a critical gap.

Axar Patel’s Proven Track Record Ignored

Srikkanth highlighted Axar Patel’s match-winning ability:

“Axar has an outstanding record. He bowled brilliantly in the Champions Trophy and helped us win the T20 World Cup. Suddenly he’s gone missing. Where is Axar Patel? The team is paying the price.”

Axar has played 66 ODIs, taking 75 wickets at an economy of 4.49, and has also contributed 859 runs with the bat. Recently, he was promoted up the batting order, proving his versatility with consistent performances.

Srikkanth’s remarks have sparked renewed debate over team composition, the role of all-rounders, and India’s bowling strategy in crucial matches.