London: The Indian selectors’ decision to not include a spinner in the India ‘A’ team for the three-day warm-up match against the visiting England side has irked former English captain, Michael Vaughan, who described the tactics as “pathetic”.
“India to play no spinners against England in the A team warm-up game … if that’s what the game has come to???? Pathetic tactics,” Vaughan tweeted.
The former Test cricketer’s displeasure came after the BCCI’s new selection committee, headed by Sandeep Patil, decided against the inclusion of a spinner in the ‘A’ team.
“India to play no spinners against England in the A team warm-up game … if that’s what the game has come to???? Pathetic tactics,” Vaughan tweeted. AFP
Vaughan, in his outburst, said India was redefining the “home advantage” and warned that they were setting up a wrong precedent for other countries.
“I don’t think its (sic) in the spirit of game. Prepare wickets which suit your team (spinning tracks) that should be enough… Poor form!!!
“India’s tactics are terrible for the game… It’s taking home advantage to a new level… Other teams might follow.”
The selectors’ move to go ahead with an all pace attack for the 3-5 November duel is reportedly been intended to not provide the visitors with any chance of getting a feel of India’s strength.
There has been a lot of talk about utilising the home conditions, and India would definitely not like the Alastair Cook-led side to get a hang of the things to come.
David Llyod, another former England Test cricketer, endorsed the views of his countrymate. “No spinner in India A team vs England….totally lacking in class and style decision,” Llyod tweeted.
England’s tussle with the Suresh Raina-led India ‘A’ team will kick off the visitors’ three-month long tour, which includes four Tests and five ODIs, apart from two T20 internationals.
PTI
