Ruturaj Gaikwad wasn't considered in the Indian squad for the three-match T20I series against Bangladesh after getting snubbed in the Tests. This unexpected move drew fair share of criticism from fans and experts, questioning the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decision-making process and the role of chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
Now, Naushad Shaikh, Gaikwad's Maharashtra teammate, has also expressed his confusion regarding the non-selection of Gaikwad in the Indian team, especially given the absence of regular T20I openers like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Shaikh's comments further highlight the growing discontent surrounding the BCCI's selection policies.
Ruturaj Gaikwad's absence in Bangladesh series questioned
Naushad took to social media to express his disappointment over the BCCI's decision to exclude Gaikwad from the Indian T20I squad against Bangladesh. While praising the BCCI's overall efforts in various aspects of cricket, Shaikh highlighted the lack of consistency in team selection.
"How Ruturaj Gaikwad was not included in Bangladesh T20 Series. Even if the Indian Team Is Not Having second specialist opener... not getting picked in this team is hard to understand. BCCI is doing extraordinary job across every department but there should be some stability in team selection which previously it used to be," Naushad wrote in his story.
"@rutu.131 did well in zimbabwe series just before that he was second highest run getter in IPL 2024. one should feel for him.. looking him as a player he should be given long run in every format and he deserved that... I think its home state @maharashtracricketofficial @rohit_rajendra_pawar job also to ask or speak for him to concerned people in BCCI. #remember you get players lie him in generations and we r blessed to have him in our state. #hightime," his story further read.
