Robin Uthappa criticized the Indian selectors and team management for not including Cheteshwar Pujara in the squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, calling it a missed opportunity. With India’s top order struggling in the series, Uthappa believes Pujara, who has a strong track record in Australia with 993 runs at an average of 47.28, could have made a significant impact.
He also expressed disappointment over the treatment of Abhimanyu Easwaran, a consistent performer in domestic cricket. “Easwaran could have been the next Pujara on this tour,” Uthappa said, highlighting his consistent 1000-run seasons. Comparing Easwaran’s situation to Karun Nair, who was dropped despite scoring a triple century, Uthappa criticized the management for giving players false hopes. “If you’re not going to play him, be honest and tell him upfront, instead of stringing him along,” he added.