Former New Zealand all-rounder Scott Styris said that KL Rahul deserved to be named in the India squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2022, as he is the vice-captain of the side and a genuine match winner on the biggest stage.
He did, however, have sympathy for young batter Ishan Kishan, who missed out on selection.
The left-handed Ishan was overlooked for the Asia Cup 2022, starting on August 27 in the UAE, and the most probable reason behind the move was Rahul’s return, but the young opener’s form was not impressive enough to be picked for the multi-nation event.
However, Styris said that Ishan gives Team India a left-handed batter’s option and he is also a terrific player, given that he would be disappointed to miss out on a berth in the India squad for the Asia Cup.
Scott Styris said on SPORTS18's show 'SPORTS OVER THE TOP': “KL Rahul was a simple decision probably of all the possible match-ups that we've discussed; I think this was the easiest one. You see, how valuable to the Indian team to the management and to the selectors because he's been given the vice-captaincy as well.”
The commentator further said, “So that says that he was always a frontline player in this Indian side and I guess it's unlucky for Ishan Kishan, he's got that left-handed ability which I think they'd have loved to have got into the squad if they possibly could have because it's a very right-handed dominant side until to get to someone like Rishabh Pant.”
He concluded, “So, I think he'll be disappointed and naturally, he's a terrific player. But KL Rahul, it is great for India that he's back because you know, he's a genuine match winner on the biggest stage too.”
Notably, Ishan has so far played 19 T20Is for India, and amassed 543 runs with his highest score of 89.
