Gambhir-Agarkar's selection ripped apart after India's humiliating defeat: 'Test cricket is a game of specialists'

India's Test Selection Under Fire

Former cricketer Parthiv Patel sharply criticized the Indian Test team's selection after a recent crushing defeat. He expressed concern that the current selection strategy, overseen by Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar, favors versatility over expertise.

"Test cricket is a game of specialists," Patel said, underlining the importance of choosing players based on their mastery in a single discipline rather than their ability to contribute in multiple areas.

Too Many All-Rounders, Not Enough Experts

Patel pointed out that the balance of India's Test squad leaned excessively toward all-rounders, arguing that it weakens both batting and bowling departments in long-format conditions. According to him, India's line-up often sacrifices specialist spinners or batters who can sustain innings in demanding situations.

He called for a more focused selection process, with team composition built on the strengths of individual players rather than flexible combinations.

“Every player has a distinct role in Tests. You can’t fill gaps with all-rounders when the game needs someone who can bat or bowl with precision.”

Author’s summary: Parthiv Patel criticized India’s Test selection, warning that an excess of all-rounders over specialists undermines the team’s effectiveness in long-format cricket.

Hindustan Times — 2025-11-26

India's Test Selection Under Fire

Too Many All-Rounders, Not Enough Experts

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