Karthik reveals why Chahal and Harshal didn't feature in the T20 World Cup
Chahal is India's second highest wicket-taker in T20Is, yet he hasn't featured in any T20 World Cup match since making his debut in 2016.
He wasn't even a part of the squad during the 2021 World Cup and even though he was selected this time, he didn't get any game time.
Harshal Patel, on the other hand, featured in 23 T20Is for India leading up to this World Cup. But he didn't find a place in the XI either.
It's quite surprising that two bowlers who have played so extensively for India weren't considered good enough to play even one match during the mega event.
Now India keeper Dinesh Karthik has revealed the reason and the thinking of the Indian team management behind this decision.
"They didn't sulk or get upset once because they were very sure. At the start of the tournament, they were told that under these conditions, we would be playing you; otherwise, it might be difficult. So, they were very aware and were preparing in such a way that when they get an opportunity, they would try and do their best, but there might be a chance that they ended up not playing," Karthik told during an interaction with Cricbuzz.
"So, when that clarity is there from the coach and captain, it makes the job easier for the player because you just start looking inward and thinking, okay what do I do to start preparing better. That is what they were doing, and had they been given a chance, they would have given their best. This is a very high-intensity tournament. As mentioned, he played a lot of matches for India, and he knows the feeling of being dropped," he added.
Although India performed quite well during the Super 12s, they suffered a crushing 10-wicket loss to England in the semi-finals and that has drawn widespread criticism from all corners.
Some major changes could be seen in the T20I squad in the time ahead, and it has started with the BCCI opting to get a new selection panel on board.
