‘Many Laughable Things Happening in Indian Cricket’: Did Venkatesh Prasad take shots at Rahul Dravid, Laxaman

Notably, the 36-year-old, who represents Kerala in domestic cricket, finished the Ranji Trophy 2022-23 season as the leading wicket-taker. He picked 50 wickets at an average of 19.26 in just seven matches (13 innings). However, he hasn’t been picked in South Zone squad for Duleep Trophy and the same has raised many eyebrows.

“Highest wicket-taker in Ranji trophy in India (Elite Group) didn’t get picked in Duleep trophy. Can you please check whether it has ever happened in Indian domestic history? Just wanted to know. Not blaming anyone,” Saxena tweeted.

Venkatesh Prasad has called Saxena’s snub baffling, adding that it was a “shame” that Ranji Trophy performances have lost their value. He also used the opportunity to take an indirect shot at the Indian team management.

“There are many laughable things happening in Indian cricket. The highest wicket taker in Ranji Trophy not being picked even for the South Zone team is as baffling as it gets. Just renders the Ranji Trophy useless..what a shame,” Venkatesh, who was the bowling coach of the Indian team which won the T20 World Cup 2007, tweeted.

Venkatesh Prasad’s comment is being seen by many as a shot at India head coach Rahul Dravid and NCA head VVS Laxman. Dravid’s planning and decision was questioned after India’s 209-run loss against Australia in the World Test Championship final (WTC final) 2023.

Ashwin, the number one ranked Test bowler in the world, was not picked in the playing eleven. KS Bharat was considered despite his poor run with the bat. Team India’s decision to win the toss and bowl first was also questioned. Umesh Yadav, who does not have a great record in England, played over Ashwin and Jaydev Unadkat.

The Indian team management has also been criticised lately for the injury management of the players. Jasprit Bumrah is out of action since September 2022, while the likes of Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul have also struggled with their fitness from time to time.

The National Cricket Academy (NCA) headed by VVS Laxman came under the scanner after Bumrah failed to make a successful comeback from injury twice in a row. The pacer was fast-forwarded into India squad before the T20 World Cup 2022 but he could last for two matches only. Later, he was named in the squad for Sri Lanka ODIs in January but was ruled out just before the start of the series.

India’s preparation for the WTC final has also been questioned. The players have been accused of focussing on the IPL more. The hectic schedule of the Indian players did not allow them much time to prepare for the summit clash.

Earlier, Venkatesh Prasad questioned KL Rahul’s spot in Indian Test team and accused the management and selectors of favouritism.