'Instead of Twitter, focus on performing so that no one can leave you' - Graeme Smith's advice to 'hurt' Rahul Tewatia

Rahul Tewatia made the news last week for his cryptic tweet ‘expectations hurts‘, which came after India announced the squad for the Ireland tour. India declared a 17-member squad for the two-match T20I series, starting on the 26th of June.

Tewatia’s name was missing from the list but it was not shocking news for the fans as the player was not included in the recently concluded South Africa series as well. Meanwhile, former South African skipper Graeme Smith has advised the player to focus more on his game instead of Twitter.

“It’s very difficult in India as you guys have so much talent. And coach Rahul Dravid, and captain Rohit Sharma must have had picked their majority of guys anticipating the conditions in Australia. I would say instead of Twitter, focus, perform and next time your time comes make sure no one can leave you out,” Graeme Smith told Star Sports.

At least his hard work should have been recognized: Sunil Gavaskar

The 29-year-old batter was selected for the England T20Is at home last year but he missed making his debut due to an injury. He was a big-money buy for Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2022 season and performed well with 217 runs in 16 matches at a strike rate of 147.61.

However, with the ball, Tewatia bowled just six overs throughout the IPL season and failed to take any wicket. However, the former Indian batting great Sunil Gavaskar feels that he should have been given a chance for the upcoming Ireland tour to recognize his hard work.

“Rahul Tewatia should have been in team for Ireland. The one man who should have been in the team was Iceman Rahul Tewatia. He was superb in IPL. He batted cleverly throughout the tournament. Someone who shows that kind of temperament should have been in the team at least as 16th member of the team. At least his hard work should have been recognized,” said Gavaskar.