Indian batter Ruturaj Gaikwad’s absence from India’s squad for the upcoming New Zealand series has triggered debate surrounding clarity in the BCCI selection process. His absence has drawn scrutiny because it comes on the back of Gaikwad’s impressive century in India's most recent ODI series against South Africa. The timing of Gaikwad’s omission is quite notable, as it coincides with the return of Shreyas Iyer to the team.
Iyer missed the South Africa assignment after picking up an injury during the Australia tour last year in October. However, his inclusion in the squad remains subject to fitness clearance. Reacting to Gaikwad's exclusion, former Indian batter Robin Uthappa expressed shock and advised Gaikwad to perform consistently.
"Buddy, it's very hard to process. You have to make it make sense, right? It takes a toll, and you need to almost find silver linings to lean back on. In these circumstances, it's not the easiest thing to do. It's hectic, and you've got to find a way to see the positives," Uthappa said on his YouTube channel.
"One of the challenges with Indian cricket is that you're constantly operating in survival mode. To switch from that mindset takes an immense amount of resilience, self-talk and positive reinforcement. You have to be someone who looks for silver linings," he added.
"You have to keep fighting, especially if you don't come from one of the three big states in India - Mumbai, Delhi or Punjab. If you're not from one of those states, you have to keep pushing yourself," he added.
Meanwhile, India will face New Zealand in the first match of the three-match series on January 11 in Vadodara.