Goa players have raised eyebrows over the inclusion of Mohammad Azharuddin’s son, Asaduddin in the state team. Asaduddin makes the cut as a professional player for Goa for the upcoming Ranji Trophy.
However, Asaduddin hasn’t played any first-class match which has raised doubts over the authenticity of the move. Asaduddin was not getting his opportunity in Hyderabad. Thus, he approached Goa and got his chance.
Asaduddin hasn’t played any first-class matches.
Meanwhile, Shadab Jakati who is Goa’s most successful bowler is not happy with the inclusion of Asaduddin.
“Azhar was a great cricketer but does that mean his son should walk into the state Ranji team, at the cost of talented Goan players?. Asaduddin hasn’t played any first-class match. He tried his luck in Uttar Pradesh and failed, yet Goa is welcoming him with open arms”, said Shadab Jakati as quoted by TOI.
On the other hand, Amit Verma is the second professional player of Goa in this season, who also didn’t play Ranji Trophy in the previous season. In fact, his inclusion has also raised eyebrows.
Meanwhile, Shadab Jakati has played for Goa for almost two decades. However, he was asked to consider retirement after feuding with Goa Cricket Association president Suraj Lotlikar.
In fact, the senior players of Goa have been asked to leave. Furthermore, Swapnil Asnodkar, Saurabh Bandekar and Amit Yadav are also shown the exit door.
“Without playing a First Class match, how can you call Azhar’s son a professional player,” asked Namdev Phadte, Goa’s first centurion in Ranji Trophy.
“People laugh at Goan cricket because of these stupid decisions. We have become a laughing stock. On what basis are you bringing these professionals? Asaduddin hasn’t played first-class cricket, and Amit didn’t play Ranji last season. If you look at the records, Goan cricketers like Swapnil and Saurabh – both dropped – have better performances,” said Jakati.
Shadab Jakati also played for the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League.