Hanuma Vihari or Shreyas Iyer will get chance in SA series as per India's team composition: MSK Prasad

It came as a huge surprise for many when Hanuma Vihari didn’t get a chance in India’s home Test series against New Zealand. On the other hand, he was sent with India A for unofficial Tests against South Africa A which actually helped his cause. In the same light of events, former chief selector MSK Prasad stated that it is quite difficult to neglect Vihari from the upcoming South Africa Tests in the playing XI.

Vihari last played for India during the Sydney Test in India’s last Border Gavaskar Trophy which resulted in a brilliant draw. During the three unofficial Tests, the 25-year-old smashed three half-centuries in Bloemfontein. He was even part of the England tour but didn’t get a look in for the final XI.

“First, of all, he was deserving of a place in the squad for the New Zealand series at home. I think since he was not going to get an opportunity, they would have sent him for India A tour. Now in the 2nd unofficial Test, he has hit two (three) half-centuries. Yes, having somebody who has done well in away series in England, Australia, and West Indies. If you are looking at a youngster, then Hanuma Vihari should be played,” said Prasad as quoted by India Today.

Hanuma Vihari is a guy who is solid in his technique: MSK Prasad

Moving further in the conversation, Prasad stated that it is quite difficult to look past Vihari and he will give a headache to selectors for the upcoming SA Tests. However, Prasad stated that everything will depend on team combination as on song Shreyas Iyer will also be the difficult player to ignore.

“A lot depends on what they are expecting from the player, the role he is going to play. Hanuma Vihari is a guy who is solid in his technique. Similarly, Shreyas Iyer is someone who can bring in a little aggression. So, it all depends on the batting order and what kind of role that the team management expects of their middle-order batter. Based on that, one of them can be given an opportunity,” added Prasad.