‘Can you please check whether it has ever happened in the Indian Domestic history?’ - Jalaj Saxena seeks answers after Duleep Trophy snub

Despite picking 50 wickets in just seven matches in the 2022-23 edition of the Ranji Trophy, veteran Kerala all-rounder Jalaj Saxena failed to make it to the South Zone squad for the upcoming Duleep Trophy. Notably, the cricketer was phenomenal with the ball and also contributed with the bat for Kerala. Thus, he was expected to feature in the Duleep Trophy but was snubbed.

It is believed that the selectors preferred Washington Sundar over Jalaj to strengthen the South Zone squad. However, Jalaj has done nothing wrong and thus, is disappointed with the decision of the selection committee.

The 36-year-old took things to Twitter and clarified that he isn’t blaming anyone for the snub but asked to check if any cricketer in the past managed to finish a Ranji Trophy season as the leading wicket-taker but failed to make it to the Duleep Trophy squad.

“Highest wicket taker in Ranji trophy in India( Elite Group) didn't get picked in Duleep trophy. Can you please check whether it has ever happened in the Indian Domestic history? Just wanted to know. Not blaming anyone,” Jalaj tweeted.

Highest wicket taker in Ranji trophy in India( Elite Group) didn't get picked in Duleep trophy. Can you please check whether it has ever happened in the Indian Domestic history? Just wanted to know. Not blaming anyone 🙏 https://t.co/Koewj6ekRt

— Jalaj Saxena (@jalajsaxena33) June 17, 2023

South Zone selection creates massive controversy

Just like Jalaj, Tamil Nadu cricketer Baba Indrajith too failed to make it to the South Zone squad. Senior cricketer Dinesh Karthik came out in support of the stumper–batter and questioned the exclusion of one of the consistent performers for Tamil Nadu in the recent past. Karthik stated that he fails to understand the decision, as Indrajith played for the Rest of India in March and was then dropped without any significant reason.

“I DONT understand selection committee these days. BABA INDRAJITH plays for Rest of India against MP in the first week of March 2023. There has been no first class matches post that, but he doesn't feature for SOUTH ZONE in the duleep trophy. Can someone tell me why??” Karthik tweeted.

I DONT understand selection committee these days

BABA INDRAJITH plays for Rest of India against MP in the first week of March 2023.

There has been no first class matches post that , but he doesn't feature for SOUTH ZONE in the duleep trophy.

Can someone tell me why??#bcci

— DK (@DineshKarthik) June 14, 2023