Cricket News

Sanjay Manjrekar questions KS Bharat’s place in India’s Test squad, urges selectors to explore other options

Of late, there has been a lot of criticism showered on Kona Srikar Bharat, who is currently the Indian Test wicketkeeper. While he has done well behind the stumps, his batting has left a lot to be desired. In 7 Tests, he scored just 221 runs at an average of just 20.09 without getting a single fifty. While it is true that he has played on some tough pitches, there is fierce competition in the Indian team and hence, the onus was on him to seize the opportunities.

Today, the Indian squad during the remaining three Tests vs England was announced by the Indian Cricket Board. Bharat retained his place which is an indicator of the fact that he will be given more chances, one at the very least. However, the rope is only getting shorter and hence, Bharat must pull his weight.

‘I am not sure it is worthwhile…’

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding KS Bharat’s Test performance. Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Manjrekar urged the Indian team management to explore other wicketkeeping options while Rishabh Pant recovers from his injury. “It’s a lot like he’s playing his first series. He’s played before; he played all four Test matches against Australia, and Rishabh Pant is due to come any time soon. So, I am not sure whether it is worthwhile and makes sense to keep investing in KS Bharat,” he stated

Building on his statement, Manjrekar further pointed out that having omitted KS Bharat for the West Indies series last year, alternatives should have been explored.

“He’s also not 20 years old, and India had moved on from KS Bharat and gone to Ishan Kishan. So he’s done just enough to maybe just keep his place in the side. This team management believes in being fair to every individual, but I would personally look at another option before Rishabh Pant comes in and takes his place,” Manjrekar said.

To be fair to the selectors, they had explored the option of Ishan Kishan but the youngster has not made himself available for this series which has probably led them to go back to Bharat for the time being.