Why Ishan Over Rahul?’ Former India Star Slams Team Selection, Says Experience Was Overlooked

Former India cricketer Atul Wassan has criticised some of Team India's selection decisions, saying that promoting Ishan Kishan to the No. 4 batting position ahead of KL Rahul was difficult to understand. Reflecting on India's recent team combinations, Wassan argued that the management overestimated some players while underestimating others, leading to questionable selection choices.

Questions Over Batting Order

Speaking about India's middle-order strategy, Wassan said KL Rahul had already established himself as a reliable batter in pressure situations, making the decision to send Ishan Kishan ahead of him surprising.

According to the former pacer, Rahul's experience and ability to anchor an innings made him a more suitable choice for the crucial No. 4 position, especially in high-pressure international matches.

'Some Players Were Overestimated'

Wassan suggested that the Indian team management occasionally placed excessive faith in certain players while failing to fully utilise experienced performers.

Without questioning Ishan Kishan's talent, he clarified that the young wicketkeeper-batter possesses immense potential but was handed responsibilities that may have come too early. He added that player development should be gradual rather than driven by sudden promotions.

KL Rahul's Consistency Highlighted

The former cricketer praised KL Rahul for consistently adapting to different batting positions and team requirements. Whether opening the innings or batting in the middle order, Rahul has often delivered under pressure.

Wassan believes Rahul's versatility and calm temperament make him one of India's most dependable batters, qualities that should have earned him greater trust during team selection.

Selection Debates Continue

India's team combinations have frequently been debated by fans and experts alike, particularly ahead of major ICC tournaments. Balancing youth with experience remains one of the biggest challenges for the selectors and team management.

While Ishan Kishan continues to be regarded as one of India's brightest young talents, Wassan feels that experience should not be overlooked when making key decisions in international cricket.

His comments have reignited discussions among cricket fans about merit, form, and the importance of clearly defined roles within the Indian batting lineup.