ZIM vs IND, 2nd ODI | Saba Karim surprised by Deepak Chahar's exclusion from lineup: Difficult to understand
India Today
Former cricketer Saba Karim has revealed that he was left surprised by India's decision to exclude Deepak Chahar from the lineup for the second ODI.
Former cricketer Saba Karim expressed his surprise at seeing Deepak Chahar being excluded from the lineup for the second ODI against Zimbabwe on Saturday.
Chahar made a splendid return after a lengthy injury layoff in the first ODI and wreaked havoc on the Zimbabwean batting lineup. He ended up with figures of 27 for three in the seven overs he bowled.
However, the decision not to include him in the team for the second game surprised many fans and pundits, with Karim being one of them.
The former cricketer said on Sony Sports, as quoted by Hindustan Times, that it was a decision that was difficult to understand. Karim said that it would make sense if it was a precautionary measure to manage the pacer's workload.
"Difficult to understand that actually. Unless it is on the advice of the support staff to manage the workload and keep him fresh, to make sure there's not much pressure on his body. It is difficult for a fast bowler to come back from an injury and play regular matches," said Karim.
The former wicketkeeper also said that he was expecting Avesh Khan to replace Chahar in the second game and not Shardul Thakur. He also said that Khan is part of the Asia Cup squad and it would have been ideal for him to get some game time before the tournament.
