Pathan Questions Selection of Underperforming Captains
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has claimed that Rohit Sharma would not have kept his place in the Test XI if he wasn’t captain. He highlighted Rohit’s struggles in the longest format, noting an average of just 6.20 during the Australia tour. This was the lowest for any visiting captain in Australia with at least five innings.
Praises White-Ball Brilliance but Points Out Test Failures
In a teaser released by Lallantop, Pathan praised Rohit’s success in white-ball cricket. However, he pointed to his poor run in eight Tests last year against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia. Rohit scored only 164 runs in that period, with a single half-century. Pathan said that without leadership responsibility, Rohit would likely have been dropped.
Sydney Test Exit Sparks Speculation
Rohit skipped the final Test in Sydney, leading to speculation about him being dropped. Rohit later clarified that he had voluntarily opted out. Pathan revealed that, despite knowing Rohit’s place was not secure, they had to show public support when interviewing him on the broadcaster’s platform.
Broadcasters’ Courtesy, But Doubts Remain
Pathan explained that as hosts, they had to be polite to their guest. However, internally, they felt his form did not justify a place in the XI if he wasn’t captain.
Debate Over Performance-Based Selection
Pathan’s comments have reignited discussions about merit-based selection in Indian cricket. Many fans now question whether captains should get extended runs despite poor form or be judged purely on performance.
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