1-3 down, but selectors keep faith

MUMBAI: By early noon, the formidable Indian batting line-up wilted under the pressure exerted by Australia’s Sultans of Speed. The shocking manner of the collapse fanned speculation that National selectors, who were to pick the team for the last two one-dayers, could indulge in some chopping and changing.

However, the unnerving experience undergone by many a fine Indian batsman in the middle didn’t lead to names being struck-off the team list for the next two ODIs at Nagpur and Mumbai.

Even if the selectors wanted to bring about changes there saw no suitable replacement. One selector said that the committee didn’t have any option of dropping anyone as both Virender Sehwag and Manoj Tiwary were unfit.

However, what is perplexing is the status of Tiwary. Tiwary is not only fit but scored an impressive century in the Irani Trophy just three days back.

After the ton, Tiwary said: “I am completely fit and my rehab is complete. But I still work out in the pool and the gym. I can even bowl, though I did not get an opportunity to do so.”

Sehwag was due for his chance, but missed out owing to a groin injury picked up during the World T20 championship, that saw him miss the final. Sehwag underwent a fitness test on October 5.  The decision to retain the team was on expected lines, as was reported by DNA on Thursday.

Down 1-3 and one match washed out, the selectors could have either retain the same team or consider it the perfect time to throw the challenge of squaring the series at some fresh legs, in line with their rotation policy.

As it stands, the likes of Suresh Raina, Parthiv Patel and Munaf Patel will have to wait longer to make their comebacks. Meanwhile, S Badrinath, who has been drafted into the side, is one change the selectors can fancy from the current set-up. Amongst the squad, only Rahul Dravid has failed to deliver the goods so far totalling 44 runs from four innings at an average of 11.