Former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has expressed disappointment with wicketkeeper KS Bharat’s batting performance in the first two Tests against England. Known for his candid views, Manjrekar expressed concerns over Bharat’s inability to live up to expectations after replacing Ishan Kishan in the Test series against South Africa.
The former batsman feels that Bharat’s poor performance in the series against England has raised doubts about his suitability as a long-term solution behind the stumps. With Rishabh Pant expected to return to the team after fully recovering from injury, Manjrekar urged the Indian selectors to prioritize wicketkeepers who can make a significant contribution with the bat.
“It’s very much like he’s playing his first series. He’s played before; he’s played all four Tests against Australia and Rishabh Pant is coming soon. So, I’m not sure about retaining that Worthy and meaningful investment in KS Bharat.
“He is not yet 20 years old and India has moved on from KS Bharat to Ishan Kishan. So he has done just enough to retain his place in the side. This team management believes in fairness to everyone but after Rishabh Pant comes in and I would personally consider another option before taking his place,” Manjrekar told ESPNCricinfo.
Manjrekar’s observation came after Bharat failed to score 50 runs in two Tests against England. Despite his Test experience, Bharat’s batting performance failed to inspire confidence, raising questions about his role in the team, especially with Pant waiting in the wings.
During the Border-Gavaskar Trophy last year, Bharat scored only 101 runs in four games against Australia, with his highest score being 44. Likewise, his contribution in the World Test Championship final was unsatisfactory, scoring only 5 and 23 runs respectively.
“India will start looking at whether KS Bharat’s wicketkeeper is that good and can we afford one who has not contributed much with the bat… India in recent times and around the world if you see are looking Decent wicketkeeper-keeper but contributing with the bat,” Manjrekar stressed.
However, Bharat is expected to retain his place in the starting XI for the third Test of the series against England starting on February 13. The head coach confirmed that while Ishan Kishan is currently unavailable for selection, KL Rahul will not retain the wicket of Rahul Dravid ahead of the series.