Tests vs West Indies: MSK Prasad justifies Karun Nair’s exclusion

Batsman Karun Nair’s exclusion from the Test team that will play against the West Indies has raised more eyebrows than one. The selectors led by MSK Prasad though haven’t given any reason for why he was dropped but said that “communication” is the key in selections.

“I personally spoke to Karun soon after the selection of the Test team against the West Indies and also told the ways to make a comeback. The selection committee is very very clear with regard to the communication process,” Prasad was quoted as saying by PTI.

Nair is only the second Indian batsman to score a triple hundred after legendary Virender Sehwag who has a couple under his belt. Hanuma Vihari, who did put up a gritty show, was preferred over Nair. The triple centurion though went on record saying the team management was never satisfied with Nair in ranks and that it was never communicated to him. He was overlooked for the entire England tour despite being in the side.

But Prasad differed on the point and brought to the fore the importance of communication. “Communication has always been the strong point of this committee. It’s really tough to inform any unpleasant news to any player. You need to have valid reasons to explain them about their exclusion though they may not agree with it,” the chief selector said.

The former India stumper explained that his colleague former India batsman Devang Gandhi spoke to Nair in England itself when he was not picked for the Test matches. “Having said that we are very clear and candid in our communication process. My colleague Devang Gandhi spoke to Karun Nair at length in England to keep him motivated and wait for his opportunities,” Prasad stated.

However, the chief selector advised Nair not to lose heart and keep scoring at the national level. “He will have to keep on piling runs in Ranji Trophy and whatever India A series is there. Karun is very much in the scheme of things for Test cricket. Right now, we have advised him to focus on performing in domestic and India A matches,” he signed off.

The first Test against the West Indies starts in Rajkot on Thursday. West Indies will play two Test matches, five ODIs and three Twenty20 Internationals.

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Image Source: Hindustan Times