From being tipped as India’s answer to their number 4 woes to being excluded by the selection committee for the World Cup 2019, Ambati Rayudu’s fall from the grace wasn’t digested well by most of the supporters and cricket fraternities when BCCI announced the 15-squad for the grand tournament.
All-rounder Vijay Shankar, who made his ODI debut against Australia in March this year, was selected ahead of Rayudu, with the selection committee citing his "three-dimensional" skills (batting, bowling and fielding) as the main reason for selection.
The decision, without an iota of doubt, wasn’t digested well by Rayudu, 33, as despite averaging 47.05 in ODIs, he was neglected. Taking to social media, the 33-year-old batsman – who has 10 half-centuries and three tons to his name - took a crisp yet subtle dig at the decision by quoting, “Just Ordered a new set of 3d glasses to watch the world cup.”
Former captain Gautam Gambhir, too, mentioned that he feels sorry for Rayudu given that he has performed quite decently.
"It is very, very unfortunate that someone averaging 48 in white-ball cricket and is only 33 has been left out. That for me is more heartbreaking than any other selection decision," he added.
Meanwhile, India will begin their World Cup quest from June 5, with a clash against South Africa being scheduled at Rose Bowl Stadium. The journey will continue as the Men in Blue will face defending champions, Australia on June 9, followed by another game on June 13 against New Zealand
