Sanjay Manjrekar questions absence of Indian trio from Duleep Trophy
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has voiced his surprise at Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah's absence from the Duleep Trophy first round.
He pointed out that these players have been well-rested and should have been considered for selection.
The tournament will begin on September 5 in Bengaluru and Anantapur, introducing a new format with four teams: India A, India B, India C, and India D.
Statistics
Manjrekar highlights players' international match participation
Manjrekar highlighted the trio's participation in international matches over the past five years.
"India has played 249 international matches in the last 5 years. Rohit has played only 59% of those. Virat 61% & Bumrah 34%. I see them as well-rested India players," he stated on 'X.'
This statement underscores his belief that these players could have been fit for selection in the Duleep Trophy's opening round.
Squad updates
BCCI announces player changes for Duleep Trophy
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced several changes to the player lineup for the Duleep Trophy.
Ravindra Jadeja has been granted an exemption without a specified reason, while Mohammed Siraj and Umran Malik are recovering from recent illnesses.
Navdeep Saini and Gaurav Yadav have been named as their replacements.
Tournament importance
Duleep Trophy's significance in upcoming Test calendar
The Duleep Trophy is a crucial platform for identifying key players for India's busy Test calendar.
The tournament's results could influence selections for the World Test Championship final.
India's home season begins with a two-Test series against Bangladesh on September 19 in Chennai, followed by three Tests against New Zealand and the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia.
Injury prevention
BCCI's stance on resting key players
Former BCCI secretary Jay Shah explained that Kohli, Rohit, and Bumrah were rested to avoid potential injuries before three crucial Test series.
"We should not insist on players like Rohit and Virat to play in the Duleep Trophy. They will risk injury," he stated while speaking to the media earlier this month.
This statement provides insight into BCCI's strategy of prioritizing player health over domestic tournament participation.
Numbers
Numbers of Kohli, Rohit and Bumrah in Tests
Indian captain Rohit has featured in 59 Tests, racking up 4,137 runs at an average of 45.46.
Kohli has played in 103 matches, amassing 8,848 runs at an average of 49.15, and a highest score of 254*.
Additionally, Bunrah has earned 36 Test caps to his name, claiming 159 scalps. He has 10 five-wicket hauls under his belt.