Several questions have emerged around the selection of the Jammu & Kashmir squad for the upcoming two multi-day matches against Kerala, after the J&K Cricket Association (JKCA) on Monday announced a 21-member squad.
Dikshant Kundal, the wicketkeeper-batter who was part of the squad previously, has not been included this time despite having received limited opportunities in the earlier matches.
“What was the basis of removing a particular player without even being tested? There needs to be some sort of explanation,” a source familiar with the matter told KSW.
Praful Dhar, an off-spinner who was among the leading wicket-takers among spinners in the initial trial matches held in Jammu, has also disappeared from the selection scene. Dhar took 20 wickets in four matches in the CK Nayudu Trophy last season. Other spinners Vishal Kumar and Sarvashish Singh also had excellent numbers in the U-23 age-group.
The decision has surprised some within J&K cricket, particularly given the limited pool of quality spinners available in the J&K senior team.
“We all know how limited spinners are in the J&K senior side right now, and if you have a few who have done well, why would you exclude them for no reason?” the source said.
The selection of an IPL player who, according to available records, has not played much red-ball cricket has also drawn scrutiny.
The player was part of the earlier practice matches, where his performances were not particularly impressive, according to those who followed the games closely.
“We understand that someone who has played in the IPL should get into the team directly, but that should be in the white-ball team, not necessarily the red-ball team, especially when the particular bowler did not appear to be at his best in the earlier matches,” another source said.
There are also reports regarding the fitness of some players in the squad.
KSW has sent a detailed questionnaire to JKCA seeking clarification on the selection decisions as well as the injury status of the players concerned.
The story will be updated if and when JKCA responds.
