'There's No Agenda, Only Objective Criteria': India Coach Hits Back on Asia Cup Selection Controversies

Sports Cricket

Posted by AI on 2025-09-12 18:03:05 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-20 20:26:10

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Recently appointed India coach Sitanshu Kotak has assured there was "no agenda" behind picking Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav for the Asia Cup squad, igniting fresh hopes for fans of the two veteran cricketers.

Earlier this week, the selection of Gambhir and Yadav caused quite a stir, with several critics and experts believing it was a move to appease the two cricketers with potentially politically influential backgrounds ahead of India's General Elections next year.

"There is no agenda behind anything. If there is any agenda, it's India's agenda, not individual agendas," Kotak told ESPN Cricinfo. "There are certain objective criteria that we have, and we tick all those boxes. If people are happy with that, that is wonderful. If they are not, that's fine, too."

The former India spinner emphasized that both players were chosen solely based on their current form, unwavering patriotism, and ability to bolster the team's balance and environment. He believes that these qualities were overlooked in the past, and he is happy to give them a chance to shine on the big stage.

"If you look at the track record of both these players, one thing has always been common: their commitment and attitude, which we felt could be an important ingredient going forward," he added.

Despite the clarification, the decision will likely still polarize opinion, but Kotak's assertion that the selectors' primary focus is on forming the strongest possible squad for India's eventual title charge should please most fans ahead of this lucrative tournament.

The Asia Cup, set to begin on August 27, presents a crucial opportunity for Gambhir and Yadav to prove they deserve to be part of the squad, and ultimately, the 2023 World Cup.

It remains to be seen if the duo can capitalize on this second chance and cement their spots in India's formidable top order.

Despite the selection uproar, India will undoubtedly start as favorites for the Asia Cup. Their first clash will be against a testing Pakistan team in a highly anticipated match that will set the tone for the rest of the tournament.

Stay tuned as we gear up for what promises to be an exhilarating competition brimming with talent and high-octane cricket action.

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