World Cup: Here's why Kohli picked Dinesh Karthik over Pant
The Indian selectors have picked up a star-studded squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. However, there were a few surprise inclusions in the team, the most prominent being wicket-keeper batsman Dinesh Karthik. While experts and fans felt Rishabh Pant should have been picked over Karthik, Indian skipper Virat Kohli has revealed the real reason behind the veteran's inclusion. Here is more.
Kohli feels Karthik can show composure in pressure situations
Kohli, speaking to The Times of India, said that the main reason behind Karthik's selection was due to his ability to show composure. He has done that in the past and everyone on board was convinced. "It was the overall exposure to a tournament of this magnitude that was taken into primary consideration," Kohli said about this particular matter.
Karthik can be immensely valuable behind the wickets: Kohli
"He has the experience. If, God forbid, something happens to MS (Dhoni), Karthik can be immensely valuable behind the wickets. As a finisher, he has done well," Kohli added.
Karthik might have experience, but Pant is enjoying deadly form
While Kohli might be banking on Karthik's experience over Pant's talent, the heroics of Pant, this term, simply cannot be ignored. Pant was lethal for Delhi Capitals in the recently concluded IPL, having scored the second-most runs for the franchise, 488 in 16 innings at an average of 37.53, including three half-centuries. Further, he has had the most dismissals, as a wicket-keeper, this season.
Pant would have been ideal considering flat pitches in England
While Kohli continues to back Karthik, the author feels that India might have missed a trick by ignoring Pant. Further, considering that the pitches in England are expected to be flat, Pant would have been the best option for India as the finisher. However, it should be noted that he can still make it to the squad until May 23.
