Another former chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar feels the selectors have to take a bold step forward.
He shared stories of his former roommates, identifying MS Dhoni's talent and KL Rahul's prospects in this team.
He also predicted India besides England and defenders Australia to make the last four in the World Cup.
There are also three icon players from Afghanistan, Australia and New Zealand for the mega event.
Kohli had recently thanked Dhoni for backing him and giving him the No.3 spot in the batting order.
The national selectors opted to go with the experienced Karthik over Pant in the World Cup 2019 squad.
"There are a lot of them who are good enough."
Kohli usually places himself in the outfield and it is former captain MS Dhoni who makes the field changes.
Shastri had said earlier that Kohli playing at No.4 gives more balance and flexibility to the batting line-up.
Vengsarkar also spared a thought for senior spinner R Ashwin.
Advertisement
