Selections

I hate to start this way, but WTF. The Indian Cricket Team was announced on the 12th of December, the day the last test match ended between the arch rivals. Much to the dismay of the Indian fans, it ended in a draw. Then the moment which was most awaited for came, the announcement of the squad for the first test match on Boxing Day against Australia. I have to say this, I was shocked with the inclusion of Sehwag. He has been out of form since eternity. Hasn't scored runs in Ranji, neither could do much in T20. The question is, Why has he been selected in the squad? Was it money? Was it approach? or Was it that selectors have selected him on his strong record Down Under.

As far is record is concerned, he had an immaculate one against Pakistan, but wasn't selected. Much has been talked about his technique over the years and his foot movement is not so great. So why select him when his name didn't even figure out in the probables. I see no reason why the selectors have faith in him.

Dinesh Kartick was another such player who has found himself on the other side of the line. He retaining his spot in the squad as a substitute wicket keeper has surprised me. His work behind the wickets was pathetic, made a world record for the extras conceded. He has not been able to do anything with the bat apart from the 50-odd runs he scored in the second innings(lucky).

Now about the two players who haven't made the cut. Akash Chopra and Parthiv Patel.
Both of them have scored tons of runs in the Ranji Season. Chopra massed 700-odd runs in 7 innings and Patel scored 5 centuries on the trot and his glove work has been good. So why has the axe fallen on these two top performers in the domestic form of the game.

The selectors say that anyone who performs good gets a chance, the doors are open to all. Why did they shut the door on these two players? Haven't they proved their mettle in the domestic games, and they have been experienced at the international level. Both were a part of the tour to Australia in 2004.

Where will Sehwag figure in the star studded batting line up with Yuvraj in the form of his life the second time. Will Dravid open or will Yuvraj? Who will sit out?
Are the problems which now the team management has to face.