‘Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli or KL Rahul got plenty of chances…’ - Harbhajan Singh bashes selectors for dropping Shikhar Dhawan from ODI squad

Against Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing IPL 2023, Shikhar Dhawan once again played a phenomenal innings to secure a win in favour of Punjab Kings. The southpaw started slow, played the role of an anchor in the initial stage but slowly changed gears and in the end, smashed 86* runs off 56 deliveries. Courtesy of his well-planned knock, the visiting side posted 197 runs on board after 20 overs and eventually won the match by five runs.

Meanwhile, after the match, while showering praises on Dhawan, former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh questioned the selectors seeking reason behind dropping him from the ODI team. He also pointed out that players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and KL Rahul got a lot of support from the selectors but when it came to Dhawan, he got replaced pretty easily.

“Shikhar has also led the Indian side in many tours but suddenly we saw that after the role of Shikhar was over he was sidelined as if he is not needed anymore. I felt bad seeing this because the treatment for everyone should be the same. He is a big player and has given too much to Indian cricket.

“You can not treat him like this. He played a good knock of 86 in 56 balls. I will not name anyone here. For instance, let's take Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli, or KL Rahul who are big names. You gave them plenty of chances but on the other hand, there is no place for Shikhar Dhawan in the team now. He has always contributed for the team. Then why he is not getting a chance in the Indian team? Talking about fitness, he is as fit as Virat Kohli,” the 42-year-old was quoted as saying on his YouTube channel by Hindustan Times.

PBKS to face SRH on April 9

After bagging a win against Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati, Punjab Kings will now travel to Hyderabad to take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the 14th match of the league on April 9. 

Meanwhile, with two back-to-back wins, Punjab Kings are seated second on the IPL Points table at the moment. Dhawan, Jitesh Sharma and Bhanuka Rajapaksa looked rock solid with the bat while Nathan Ellis impressed everyone with the ball against Rajasthan Royals. On the other hand, Kagiso Rabada has joined the squad but it may take some time for Liam Livingstone to get NOC from the England and Wales Cricket Board.