In the world of cricket, team performances and selection strategies often lead to heated discussions and debates. One such incident that has come up is the surprising removal of Ambati Rayudu from IndiaODI World Cup Squad 2019.
A former cricketer Robin Uthappa has rekindled the debate, suggesting that the decision was influenced by Virat KohliPersonal interests rather than cricket reasons. This revelation not only sheds light on team selection issues but also raises questions about leadership styles in sports.
Ambati Rayudu's controversial resignation
Rayudu, who was a reliable player in the World Cup, was unexpectedly dropped from the final squad before the match started. He played ten ODIs before the World Cup, which made his exclusion all the more shocking. Uthappa said that Kohli's attitude towards the players played a major role in the selection process, suggesting that if Kohli doesn't like the players, he can be cut from the team.
” If he (Virat Kohli) didn't like anyone, didn't feel that someone was good, then he was cut. (Ambati) Rayudu is a good example,” Uthappa said in an interview with Lallantop, expressing his displeasure with the way Rayudu was treated at a crucial time in his career.
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Virat Kohli left the batsman in limbo
Uthappa's comments highlight a major problem in the club game: the sensitivity of players who are on the brink of being dropped at the last minute. Rayudu had prepared for the World Cup, his gear and equipment were ready at home, confident that he would represent India on the biggest stage of cricket.
Uthappa complained about this, adding, “You feel sad. Everyone has their preferences, I agree but you can't close the door on a player after taking him to the cusp. He had World Cup clothes, a bag of World Cup equipment, everything was at his house. A player may think he is going to the World Cup. But you locked him in the door.”
Consequences beyond choice
The fallout of Rayudu's exclusion continued to the disappointment of one player. It sparked a widespread debate over the selection process and the visibility of Indian cricket. Following his non-action, Rayudu expressed his disappointment in the public and also explained about the decision of the captain at that time. MSK Prasad. Prasad confirmed that the decisions were made collectively but admitted that Kohli had contributed to the decisions.
Also, Uthappa's comments touch on another controversial topic: Kohli's treatment of players Yuvraj Singh it affected their jobs. Uthappa also suggested that Kohli's influence was instrumental in Yuvraj's early exit from international cricket after his battle with cancer, suggesting a biased approach that could undermine interest and team cohesion.