After India’s six-wicket victory over West Indies in the first T20I, skipper Rohit Sharma explained the reason behind middle-order batter Shreyas Iyer’s omission from the playing XI in the shortest format.

During the IPL 2022 mega-auction, Shreyas was roped in by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a hefty sum of INR 12.25 Crore and he has been appointed captain for the upcoming season.

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However, Rohit said the Indian team is looking for all-round skills in the middle-order slot.

“Someone like Shreyas Iyer is sitting out, very hard on him to be out and not making it to the XI, but it’s what the team requires. We need that option in the middle, someone who can bowl,” Rohit said after the T20I series opener on Wednesday (February 16).

“It’s always nice when you have those kind of competitions going on,” he added.

For the middle-order spots, Team India picked a ‘360 degree’ player like Suryakumar Yadav along with Venkatesh Iyer, who brings in all-round skills to the table.

“We were very clear with Shreyas, we told him the team wants that option (of an all-rounder) going into the World Cup. They are all smart guys, professionals and they understand the team comes first,” Rohit said.

“A lot of things go into deciding the playing XI, the opposition, the conditions, the dimensions of the ground. Yes, sometimes it can be tough for the guys missing out but we are making sure we are giving out a very clear message. Unfortunate but we want to put the team first,” the skipper further remarked.

The second T20I between India and West Indies is due to be played at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Friday (February 18).

(With PTI inputs)