Hardwork paying off for the likes of Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav

Ahead of the New Zealand ODIs, Team India selectors chose to rest a few big names in order to test the bench strength. Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja were rested for the ODIs to give a chance to the new boys who have been doing well for India and domestic teams. Names like Mandeep Singh, Kedar Jadhav and Hardik Pandya were rewarded for their consistency and included in the squad.

“I’m really excited about the new guys coming in, for it is really energising for everyone. They’re looking in good shape having done well in the India ‘A’ series in Australia. Few guys have done well in Ranji too,” Ajinkya Rahane said yesterday.

One selector from Sandip Patil’s committee revealed to Mirror says that Mandeep Singh’s approach towards the game is the most attractive fact in him as a cricketer.

“Attitude and technique are a rare combination. This man has both,” he said.

Maharashtra star Kedar Jadhav might be at the other side of the age criteria but he has still managed to stay in the loop of things. His breakthrough season hasn’t come for want of a long run. But, his reputation of being a hard hitter is helping his cause when it comes to getting selected in the squad.

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“We don’t have an established, explosive striker of the ball as backup to Raina. He (Jadhav) can fill that void. We know he can maim the spinners, but we weren’t sure if he has the same belief against the quicks,” the ex-selector said.

“Jadhav might not be a long-term option but he ought to feature in India’s plans in the next three years especially in view of the Champions Trophy in England,” the ex-selector said.

Rahane felt that India couldn’t be thinking too far ahead. He said, “As of now it is important for us to focus on this series rather than plan for the Champions Trophy. That is still a long way to go. It’s all about giving them (the new entrants) confidence and opportunity at this level. We want to play one match at a time.”

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Hardik Pandya’s selection is bound to split opinions given the way he dropped off completely in the World T20 and later in the IPL. “Tell me if there’s a seam bowling all-rounder who’s half as good?” he asked.