Agarkar under pressure: Since the time Ajit Agarkar became the chief selector in July 2023, several major steps have been made in Indian cricket. During this period, veterans like Ravindra Jadeja, R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma have gradually retired from international cricket. In particular, Virat, Rohit, and Jadeja have retired from Test and T20I cricket, whereas R. Ashwin retired from international cricket, and now Rohit Sharma is stepping down as captain from ODI.
Agarkar Under Pressure, Harmison Big Take
The selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar included both Kohli and Rohit in the squad for the series against Australia starting October 19, but the recent reports stated that the upcoming Australia tour might turn out to be the last tour of the star duo. Meanwhile, former England pacer Steve Harmison believes that Ajit Agarkar’s position is under constant pressure.
Steve Harmison said,
“Unfortunately, I think there might be a messy end for Ajit Agarkar there. If anybody is going to win here, I think it is the former captains rather than the former all-rounder. But it all depends on if Agarkar is saying this just to fuel the fire of Kohli and Sharma; then, fair enough. You put your cards on the table and see what comes.”
Agarkar Under Pressure: Virat Kohli Better Than Rohit Sharma
Further, Harminson stated that while both players are crucial for the Indian Cricket Team, Kohli plays a bigger role than Rohit.
He said,
“I think Kohli has got a little bit of skin in the game. Runs in the bank, his reputation. Sharma, not as much. Sharma’s a little bit older. He’s not been as influential in 50-over cricket as Virat has. If Virat turns around and says, ‘All right, you go to the 50-over World Cup without me, and leading up to it, let’s see when you’re chasing 350 in 50 overs to win against. Australia or England, and you haven’t got that bloke who averages 90 winning games at number four; see where your team’s at.’ There could be a messy end in that way. There could also be words that have been misunderstood in translation.”
Playing Domestic Cricket Is A Must
Harmison suggested that Agarkar should make it clear to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma that playing domestic matches is essential if they want to prolong their international careers. He said,
“Maybe,” Agarkar said, “I want them to play domestic matches, because they probably won’t.” The problem is, they’re not playing Tests now, not even T20s. They’ll only play in the IPL. And if 50-over cricket is later in the year, at a different time than the IPL, then we want them to play some domestic matches as well.”
He added that it’s possible Agarkar’s words were intended in this direction, but the media and public have exaggerated that more.
Agarkar is now under pressure to strike a balance, keep the team strong, respect experienced players, and provide opportunities for new players. His challenges include not just selection but also cricket politics and maintaining the image and credibility of star players.
Agarkar’s situation is currently tense. He must decide how to coordinate with experienced players like Kohli and Rohit while also working on the team’s future plans. Meanwhile, the media’s attention and fan expectations are also increasing the pressure.
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