MSK Prasad serves a warning to non-performers in Tests
What's the story
This year, India have already lost six out of eight overseas Tests. The 1-4 loss against England was a reflection of the shortcomings of Virat Kohli-led India. Even though, the 5-match series saw India battle hard and come close, the batting was a serious let down. In the same regard, chief selector MSK Prasad has served a warning to non-performers. Here's more.
Batting
Prasad feels batsmen could have done better
In an exclusive interview to The Times of India, Prasad opened up on various aspects of the Indian team and the road ahead for Kohli and his boys. The selector felt that India had their moments in the series against England but the batsmen didn't deliver the goods. He stated that the openers and the middle-order could have done way better.
Performances
Selectors will look at youngsters if players don't perform
MSK was critical about players, who haven't performed, despite being backed consistently. He was direct with his answer and stated that if players do not deliver, then the selectors will be forced to look at youngsters doing well in the domestic circuit and for India A. Murali Vijay was dropped midway in the series and Shikhar Dhawan now could face the brunt as well.
Mayank
Have the selectors given some players their due?
Given the inconsistency of several Indian batsmen, one player who has been repeatedly overlooked is Mayank. The Karnataka player has been is supreme form for close to a year now and yet he hasn't found a place. MSK said that the selectors are keeping track of the player and he could soon be handed a call-up to the national team.
Tests
MSK on series against WI and Australia
MSK cited that several of the first team players could be rested for the upcoming Test series against West Indies. He also felt that the Test specialist batsmen will be given an opportunity to get enough preparation for the crucial tour of Australia, later this year. He added that players, who have been dropped, will need to fight it out in domestic cricket.
Ind vs WI
New faces for the WI series: Our learnings
We could be in line to see some fresh faces in the series against the West Indies. That's where someone like Mayank may get an opportunity. Also Karun Nair could get a spot. The likes of Shaw, Vihari and Pant could most likely keep their places in the squad. Umesh Yadav could be back in the starting XI with regular starters rested.