Former Indian cricket team opener Krishnamachari Srikkanth has voiced his dissatisfaction with the inclusion of KL Rahul in the squad for Asia Cup 2023. This decision raised eyebrows, especially after chief selector Ajit Agarkar hinted at a recent injury concern surrounding the cricketer. During the press conference following the squad announcement, Agarkar revealed that Rahul might miss the first match of the competition, with Sanju Samson being selected as a backup for this very reason. Srikkanth, however, expressed his belief that Rahul should not have been picked if he wasn’t in optimal physical condition, going as far as to label Agarkar and other decision-makers as ‘confused’ due to this selection.

In a candid statement on his YouTube channel ‘Cheeky Cheeka,’ Srikkanth questioned the selection strategy for Asia Cup 2023. He expressed his bewilderment at the inclusion of numerous medium pacers in the squad. Srikkanth highlighted the uncertainty surrounding players’ fitness and the presence of Rahul with a lingering niggle as a prime example of this confusion. According to him, the selection policy should be straightforward – if a player isn’t fit on the day of selection, they should not be considered.

Srikkanth also raised doubts about the selection of pacer Prasidh Krishna for the Asia Cup. He questioned the basis for Krishna’s inclusion, pointing out that he was chosen based on a few four-over spells bowled in Ireland. Moreover, Srikkanth noted that Krishna hadn’t participated in competitive cricket for over a year, casting doubt on whether this was the right call.