(AFP Image)
In fact Chahal and Yadav have become India's first-choice spinners in the ODIs. Talking to Sportstar, chief selector MSK Prasad said that the decision to play Chahal and Yadav was being questioned earlier. But then they have proved themselves.
“When they (Chahal and Yadav) were picked, it led to criticisms but with all due respect to everyone, we wanted to bring in variety in the spin bowling department. We wanted to increase the pool of spinners, as in the base, like we have done with the batting and seam bowling department. It is a process and they are doing well with every game against all teams. I am glad that it paid off and I am looking forward to seeing them perform consistently against the best sides,” Prasad said.
Prasad also spoke on Ashwin and Jadeja's future in the limited-overs format, and said that they still have a chance. “There is always a chance. As I said, we wanted to have a base of spinners and in the process, we gave opportunities to Kuldeep and Chahal, which they grabbed. Right now, it makes sense to continue with them for sometime and then analyse the future,” he said.
The chief selector was all praise for the bowlers, who did really well in the Test series and picked 60 wickets. “We took 60 wickets in three Tests, which shows the strength of our bowling. The way the boys came strong in the third Test proves their hard work. The nerves of steel on those wickets will go down as one of the best victories in the Indian cricket history, it is going to set the tone for the future generation,” he said.
The 42-year-old also expressed his joy on India lifting the U-19 World Cup in New Zealand. “Being undefeated throughout is a huge thing. They started their campaign against Australia and maintained the tempo. I also want to congratulate Venkatesh Prasad (Chairman, Junior Selection Committee). It is not easy to spot talents and put them together to win a World Cup. The four World Cup wins also shows the strength of our junior cricket and the investment BCCI does; right from U-16 to U-19,” he concluded.
First Published: February 9, 2018, 5:33 PM IST