Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag gestures as he speaks during an event to launch a smartphone app 'The Selector' in New Delhi on August 21, 2019. (Photo by Money SHARMA / AFP) (Photo credit should read MONEY SHARMA/AFP via Getty Images) Virender Sehwag questions the selectors about the lack of Rohit Sharma’s backup. Indian captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for COVID-19.
Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag has questioned the selection committee for failing to have a backup opener for skipper Rohit Sharma ahead of the rescheduled fifth Test against England on July 1. Rohit tested positive for COVID-19, which may prevent him from competing in this event.
With Rohit’s availability uncertain and the visitors lacking an extra opener, Sehwag state that the decision made without regard for any unforeseen circumstances, particularly the COVID-19 factor. Further explaining, the cricketer-turned-cricket pundit stated that India should have carried one or two extra players in their squad.
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Nobody expected this Covid factor: Virender Sehwag
“I believe it was a mistake on the part of the selectors not to take an extra opener as a backup.” Shubman Gill is fit because everyone thought Rohit was. Nobody saw this Covid factor coming. One or two extra players are always present, and in the days of Covid, there are 20-22 extra players. If you have a 22-man squad and don’t have an extra opener, it’s a big mistake,” Sehwag said on Sony’s pre-match show ‘Extra Innings’ for India vs. Ireland.
“Someone will be asked to open the door.” Perhaps Pujara or KS Bharat. Will Bharat be given another chance if he opens and fails? Pujara had made an excellent comeback; “Will he play again if he doesn’t score?” he wondered.
“If you make someone a makeshift opener, you must instill confidence in him.” ‘That’s fine, you put yourself above the team; we’ll back you up in the future,’ he added.
Only Rohit and Shubman Gill were the two specialist openers in the original squad, as vice-captain KL Rahul was ruled out due to a groin injury that will keep him out for some time. Meanwhile, the selectors have decided to include Mayank Agarwal in the squad as a last-minute backup.
It’s unclear who will lead India in Rohit Sharma’s absence for the Edgbaston Test.
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