Following the team’s disheartening loss to England, there has been a surge in discussions on social media, with fans expressing discontent over the exclusion of Cheteshwar Pujara. Many supporters are critical of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), questioning the decision not to give the senior players another opportunity, especially considering the lacklustre performances of their replacements.
Shubman Gill has taken over Pujara’s position in the team, while Shreyas Iyer is being experimented with in place of Ajinkya Rahane. The defeat to England intensified the scrutiny, and Pujara and Rahane started trending on social media platforms. Fans are advocating for the inclusion of these experienced players, highlighting Pujara’s recent stellar double-century in the Ranji Trophy for Saurashtra.
Despite India being the favourites after securing a 190-run lead in the first innings, remarkable 196-run innings by Ollie Pope shifted the momentum, leading to an unexpected 28-run defeat for India in the first Test against England.
