Irfan Pathan, a past Indian speedster, voices his conviction. Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, though struggling with form, ought to be in the starting lineup. This is pertinent, given Virat Kohli’s absence in the impending second Test against England.
Following a grueling tour of South Africa, Gill and Iyer struggled in the series opener against England, scoring 23 and 48 runs respectively. The pair’s dismal previous performances have sparked more debate following India’s startling 28-run defeat.
Irfan Pathan spoke on the sidelines of the Asian Legends League inauguration about the choices of Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz Khan in the playing XI over Gill and Iyer.
“A senior player like Virat Kohli’s absence is a massive factor. Over that KL Rahul is also injured. So the team management has plenty to think about. They need to think whether to give a chance to a new player straight away or wait a bit. There is no doubt that these two boys (Gill and Iyer) haven’t performed for quite some time now but it’s not that they have never performed.”
Irfan Pathan
Irfan Pathan continued:
“Obviously, there are two new players in the squad — Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz. But the Indian team management doesn’t have Virat Kohli’s services at the moment, so it will be difficult for the team management to blood in a new player straightaway. They would want to back experience. So it’s a big challenge but looking at the scenario, they might be now thinking of going with experience. “
“Shreyas and Shubman have been there for quite some time now and have experience, which comes into play in crunch situations. I feel the team management will back them because 2-3 experienced players are not there in the team.”
Irfan Pathan
Patidar was initially in the Indian team for the first two tests, stepping in for Virat Kohli. Recently, Sarfaraz was brought in to replace the hurt KL Rahul.
“Still feel India will win the series” – Irfan Pathan
Irfan Pathan confessed it was startling for him when India lost the first Test. Yet, he keeps faith in the team to triumph in the five-game series against England.
Though they secured an impressive 190-run lead in the first innings, the hosts crumbled towards the Test’s conclusion, letting the benefit slip away.
“We lost just one match but that doesn’t mean our bowlers are not good. I knew we would lose one or two matches but it is good because there is plenty of learning from defeat. I hope we win the series and I still feel India will win the series. The series is not over yet. I was really shocked that we lost but I am still hopeful that we will make a comeback.”
Irfan Pathan
The retired left-hand bowler also supported Rohit Sharma, who has been receiving criticism for his leadership.
“Rohit Sharma is a good captain. Yes, he made some mistakes in the last match but I hope he will do everything to make a comeback in the series.”
Irfan Pathan
India lost the first test of England’s previous trip in 2020/21 as well. However, they were able to win the following three games and claim a 3-1 series victory.
The second test will begin in Vizag on Friday, February 2, following a rapid turnaround.
