Chief selector Ajit Agarkar expressed disappointment regarding the exclusion of Karun Nair from India's ODI squad for the forthcoming home series against England and the Champions Trophy next month, despite acknowledging the senior batter's remarkable performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. This selection decision faced criticism from former Indian cricketer Surinder Khanna, who did not hold back in his remarks about Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Nair delivered an outstanding List A performance in the recently concluded domestic tournament, amassing 779 runs in seven matches at an extraordinary average of 389.5, remaining unbeaten in six consecutive innings. Following this achievement, experts advocated for the veteran batter's return to the international arena after a nine-year absence. However, he was ultimately omitted from the 15-member squad for the Champions Trophy.

"Karun Nair is somewhat unfortunate. I wish I were the chairman of selectors. He scored a triple century in a Test match, and then he seemed to vanish. Now, suddenly, he has re-emerged, and I hope this resurgence lasts for two to three years. However, how many players aged 35 or 36 can you include in the team? In one-day formats, you need agile fielders," Khanna remarked during an interview with ANI.

Nair made his debut for India in 2016, participating in six Test matches, including a historic triple-century against England at home. He also played two ODIs for India, accumulating 46 runs, with a highest score of 39.

'Rohit Sharma is so weak'

Khanna further criticized Rohit and Kohli's fitness levels, describing the 37-year-old Rohit as a "weak" fielder, suggesting that a batter could easily take two runs if he was positioned at the boundary. He noted that Kohli typically fields within the circle.

"The captain is also lacking. If Rohit Sharma is placed on the boundary, two runs can be easily scored. Virat Kohli primarily fields in slips and remains inside the circle. While Kohli exerts considerable effort, he is not contributing significantly in the field. I hope they all regain their mental fitness and focus to return to form," he added.

The 68-year-old expressed his approval of the selectors' decision to appoint Shubman Gill as the vice-captain of the Indian team for the Champions Trophy 2025.

"This is a commendable and encouraging development. The emerging generation, eager to assume leadership from Rohit Sharma, has been entrusted with significant roles. During his captaincy in Zimbabwe, Shubman Gill demonstrated his capabilities in various situations. The young player has exhibited potential. It is essential for Gill to regain his form, as that is of utmost importance," Khanna remarked.

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