‘We don’t need…’: Ajit Agarkar reveals why Abhimanyu Eswaran didn’t make into India’s squad for West Indies Test

Ajit Agarkar explained why Abhimanyu Easwaran missed India’s squad for the West Indies Tests, citing no need for a third opener at home. Will selectors reconsider his future opportunities?

New Delhi: BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar explained why opening batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran was not included in the 15-member squad for the Test series against the West Indies. India has selected Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul as openers, with N Jagadeesan also available as a backup option. Despite being part of the team in the Test series against England, Easwaran did not get a chance to play a single match.

No Need for a Third Opener

Agarkar clearly stated that the team does not need a third opener in home conditions, and that is why Easwaran was not selected. “In Abhimanyu, we don’t need a third opener at home,” Agarkar said.

Confidence in Nitish Kumar Reddy

Agarkar also expressed full confidence in Nitish Kumar Reddy. Despite being out due to injury during the England series, he said Nitish is capable of providing flexibility to the team. “Nitish impressed with both his bowling and batting under pressure. He’s young but provides flexibility to the team,” Agarkar said.

Fast Bowlers’ Preparation

Agarkar stated that the fast bowlers have been well-rested and are fully fit for the West Indies series, which begins in Ahmedabad on October 2.

Update on Bumrah

He said that Jasprit Bumrah is also ready for both Test matches. “This team is for both Test matches. The players have had adequate rest after the England series, and Bumrah is eager to play,” Agarkar clarified.

India’s Squad against the West Indies

India’s 15-member squad is as follows: Shubman Gill (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja (vice-captain), Washington Sundar, Jasprit Bumrah, Axar Patel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, N Jagadeesan (wicketkeeper), Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav.

Story Highlights

1. BCCI selector Ajit Agarkar’s statement on Easwaran
2. Yashasvi and Rahul get opening opportunities
3. Nitish Reddy will bring balance to the team
4. Jasprit Bumrah is fit and ready for the West Indies series