Hindustantimes wants to start sending you push notifications. Click allow to subscribe

‘Players like Rahul Dravid or VVS Laxman did not get their due’: Wasim Jaffer on what needs to change in Indian cricket

Hindustan Times, New Delhi | By
Mar 16, 2020 08:48 AM IST

At a time when the Indian Premier League has given young players in the country a great chance to rise and shine, Jaffer believes that the domestic setup should not be underplayed.

Wasim Jaffer retired as an absolute colossus of India’s domestic cricket. He became synonymous with longetivity and perseverance and several young cricketers in the country looked up to the man as far as batting and excelling in a difficult situation was concerned. However, the right-hander never quite got the recognition and got a rather truncated rope with the Indian team.

“I think I had a lot of chances. I came very close to those chances. But unfortunately the comeback didn’t happen. This happens with most cricketers, not just me. They feel they deserve to be there but do not get the opportunity because unfortunately somebody else is there to pick you and they decide certain things. But to be honest I have taken all that in my stride. I am a firm believer in destiny. If Allah has written something for you, it will happen. If he has not written it for you, no matter how much you try, it will not happen. I am content with whatever Allah has given me. If you keep cribbing about things you haven’t got, you are being very ungrateful. Allah has given me a lot of love and respect from people and I am grateful for that,” he told cricket.com.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

ALSO READ: ‘I am at my peak’: 10 years after debut, Ranji star aims Test comeback

At a time when the Indian Premier League has given young players in the country a great chance to rise and shine, Jaffer believes that the domestic setup should not be underplayed and that the domestic performers should be given their due.

“I think the time has changed. Even in my time I feel a lot of players like Rahul Dravid or VVS Laxman, I don’t think they got their value. A player playing with them in a Test match knows how important those players are. But you know we have to go with the time. A lot of importance is given to T20 cricket. The people who are in marketing business or advertising business want somebody who is seen more on the TV, somebody who is glamorous or someone who plays the brand of cricket the crowd likes.”

ALSO READ: ‘If team decides Pant will play...’: Saha opens up on NZ Test series snub

“But you can’t devalue someone who plays T20 cricket because that’s the demand of the game nowadays. What I feel is, in today’s age and day, the cricketer needs to adapt himself to all three formats. You can’t just play Test cricket or you can’t just play T20 cricket. You will be recognised and respected only if you fit in all three formats. I am not saying Pujara is not respected, but then obviously he is going to play only Test cricket and no other format.” he added.

Stay updated with the latest Cricket News, IPL Live Scores, and get exclusive insights with the RR vs DC Live Score, IPL 2024 Schedule, match highlights, and more. Explore a comprehensive Cricket Schedule, track the race for the Purple Cap and Orange Cap in IPL 2024, check Virat Kohli performance and stay ahead with all the cricket-related updates on the Hindustan Times website and app.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
OPEN APP