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Former Indian cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has sparked controversy with his criticism of Rishabh Pant’s inclusion in the playing XI for the third ODI against Sri Lanka, held in Colombo on August 7. India’s dismal 110-run loss in this match marked their first ODI series defeat to Sri Lanka in 27 years.

Following the series, Chopra voiced his surprise and disappointment over KL Rahul’s exclusion from the squad. Rahul, who had been in strong form and consistently performed well in ODI cricket, was notably absent from the playing XI, leading to further scrutiny of the team’s selection decisions.

Aakash Chopra has sharply criticized Rohit Sharma and Gautam Gambhir for their decision to drop KL Rahul from the playing XI in the third ODI against Sri Lanka.

Aakash Chopra has sharply criticized the decision-making of Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Rohit Sharma, particularly regarding their choice between KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant for the third ODI against Sri Lanka. Chopra argued that the team management should have made a definitive choice from the outset rather than switching between the two players. He found the decision to drop Rahul in favor of Pant in the final game to be unjust and influenced by factors he chose not to disclose.

Chopra praised Pant as a “rockstar” and an “X-factor” player, noting his recent success in winning the T20 World Cup 2024. He felt that if Pant was to be included, he should have been played in the earlier ODIs, while Rahul should have been consistently backed if selected. Chopra highlighted Rahul’s outstanding performance and crucial contributions in key moments since 2023, making his exclusion from the third ODI both surprising and controversial.

Chopra further questioned the decision, pointing out that other key players like Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli were also underperforming, which made Rahul’s omission even more puzzling. He also dismissed the idea that the playing conditions played a role in the decision.

This decision isn’t solely based on individual judgment: Aakash Chopra

Aakash Chopra said on his YouTube channel: “I was personally surprised when the choice was made between KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, and KL Rahul was selected. This decision isn’t solely based on individual judgment but involves multiple factors, including Rohit Sharma’s input. Since 2023, Rahul has consistently been one of the top performers, with an impressive average among players who have batted multiple times.

“Despite a slight dip in recent matches, he has been crucial in scoring important runs. The decision to play Rahul instead of Pant, who is known for his X-Factor and past performances, reflects a strategic choice. But my question is, why do they not go back to him? However, the surprising thing was that Rahul was dropped in the third match.

“He was carrying drinks in the third game, and I was a little surprised, as he was playing well. They didn’t make the change in a hurry, as the team had only lost two matches and top players like Shreyas Iyer and Virat Kohli were not also performing well, so why Rahul dropped? The conditions had nothing to do with it.”