Cheteshwar Pujara explains reason for Karthik and Vijay's World Cup inclusion

The selection of Dinesh Karthik and Vijay Shankar in places of Rishabh Pant and Ambati Rayudu, respectively for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 has ticked a big debate in India. While Karthik pipped the young Pant even after getting overlooked for India’s last ODI series against Australia at home, Vijay got the nod ahead of Rayudu as the side’s No.4 batsman for the premier event.

For both Pant and Rayudu, their current keeping and batting forms, respectively, went against their selection. Karthik and Vijay, however, are having a quiet Indian Premier League (IPL) this season, prompting many to question their selection for the ICC mega event.

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However, ace Test batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has now come up with his version on why the selection of both Karthik and Vijay will come in handy for India in England and what people should look out for in their respective campaigns.

“I feel he is a very experienced player. He has seen many ups and downs in his career and so he realises how to tackle various situations. His experience in domestic cricket, international cricket and even T20 cricket will prove to be handy for him. Now it is to see whether he gets a chance in the playing XI. If he gets a chance, his experience will prove to be handy and will be able to contribute to the team,” Pujara was quoted as saying on the Knockout Show of Rooter Sports.

HIGHLIGHTS

• India will play its first game against South Africa on June 5. 
• Ambati Rayudu and Rishabh Pant excluded from India World Cup squad. 
• Cheteshwar Pujara believes Karthik's experience will come handy during World Cup.