Indian cricketers have to compete a lot for a spot in the playing XI. There are multiple instances, where the selectors rested the senior players for a series. Then, the young players got a chance and they performed well. However, when the senior player returned, the youngster had to make way for him.
While it is common to see young players paving the way for a senior player in the playing XI, there have been a couple of instances where Indian cricketers lost their spot in the playing XI because their captain was doing the same job. Here’s a list of two such players.
1. One of the current Indian cricketers – KL Rahul
KL Rahul has proven himself as a game-changer in Test cricket. He is one of the few players who can bat at any position. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25 series is currently underway, and Rahul did a fantastic job as an opener in the first three Tests. In fact, he has been the highest run-getter for India.
Captain Rohit Sharma demoted himself down the order because of Rahul’s top form, but as per reports, Sharma is coming back to open the innings with Yashasvi Jaiswal in the fourth Test. Hence, Rahul will lose his spot as an opener.
2. Wriddhiman Saha
Wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha was known for his excellent wicketkeeping skills. However, he did not get a chance to play Test cricket for India until MS Dhoni was the captain. Saha was always the injury backup option for Dhoni.
When Dhoni retired from the game, Saha got a chance to be the team’s wicketkeeper. Saha has now been dropped from the Indian team after a lengthy run as wicketkeeper. He continues to be active in domestic cricket though.
