New Delhi: Former India batter Aakash Chopra has strongly criticized the team management for handing Test caps to players based primarily on their IPL and white-ball performances, rather than sufficient domestic experience. His comments came in the wake of India’s surprising Test series whitewash against South Africa at home.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra argued that while exceptions exist, most players should spend at least two to three seasons in first-class cricket before being considered for the longest format. Highlighting the recent series, he noted that players like Sai Sudharsan, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Dhruv Jurel received opportunities despite limited domestic exposure.
Chopra compared them to established Test debutants, pointing out that Yashasvi Jaiswal had played 15 first-class games, Shubman Gill 20–22 matches, whereas Sudharsan had only 29 games, Reddy even fewer, and Jurel just 15. Devdutt Padikkal, with 31 matches and consistent domestic performance, has not been given as many opportunities despite better preparation. Chopra said, “Most of these players are being picked on potential, promise, and IPL exploits rather than being fully ready for Test cricket.”
He stressed that fast-tracking players without adequate first-class experience can create adaptability issues under pressure. “Even exceptions like Jaiswal and Gill took time to find their feet in tricky conditions. If players are given proper domestic exposure for 2–3 seasons, they enter Test cricket well-prepared,” Chopra added.
The former cricketer urged selectors to prioritize consistent first-class performance over IPL fame. “If a player consistently scores runs or takes wickets over several seasons, giving them a Test cap makes sense. Otherwise, players may struggle, and it’s not their fault—they simply aren’t ready,” he concluded.
