NEW DELHI: Indian assistant coach Abhishek Nayar addressed Shubman Gill's absence from the playing XI for the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Thursday, shedding light on the team management's unexpected decision to include all-rounder Washington Sundar in his place.
Nayar clarified that Gill's exclusion was a strategic move influenced by the pitch conditions at the MCG rather than a statement on his form or ability. "Looking at the pitch, we felt Washi could give solidarity along with Jaddu," Nayar explained, referring to Ravindra Jadeja's role in the lineup. "I feel for Shubman, but he understands. He is not really dropped; he just couldn't find his way into the combination."
