Ex-Opener Questions Parag's Spot Over Abhishek And Ruturaj | 'That Says Something...'
Former Indian cricketer has voiced his opinions on the selection choices [X.com]
On July 18, the BCCI unveiled the squads for India's upcoming ODI and T20I series against Sri Lanka, and the announcement has sparked considerable discussion. Notably, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has voiced his opinions on the selection choices, particularly the inclusion of Riyan Parag over Abhishek Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Chopra expressed surprise at Riyan Parag’s selection, given his recent performance. Despite Parag’s modest showing in the T20I series against Zimbabwe — where he managed just 24 runs at a strike rate of 88.88 — he has been retained in the T20I squad and received his first call-up to the ODI team.
Chopra highlighted this as a point of contention, given that Abhishek Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad were left out.
Despite his Zimbabwe tour not being that good: Chopra
"Riyan Parag's name is there in both teams, in ODIs and as well as T20Is. His name is there, despite his Zimbabwe tour not being that good. Abhishek Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad's names are not there. I am talking about T20Is. Both their names are not there but Riyan Parag's is there. That says something," Chopra said on his youtube channel.
He further noted the surprise at Shubman Gill’s appointment as vice-captain, replacing Hardik Pandya, who had held the role during the World Cup.
In the IPL 2024, the Assam batter had an impressive season with Rajasthan Royals, scoring 573 runs at an average of 52.09.
However, his recent international performances have not matched up to the high standards set by left handed batter Abhishek Sharma and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who had standout performances in the Zimbabwe series.