Bharadwaj threat looms large over Azharuddin comeback

Though Bharadwaj’s success has come in one-dayers while the team to be selected tomorrow is for the Test, Bharadwaj’s technique and temperament should be ideal for a Test match. In short, it will be impossible for the selectors to ignore him.

If Azharuddin is to be recalled, it could well be at Bhardwaj’s expense.Alternatively, the selectors may have to drop Ajay Jadeja or select just one opener.

Azhar’s poor form has raised doubts about his value, though he may be still good against a side like New Zealand, especially on Indian tracks. But the point is: will it be to play him now when India’s next destination is Australia ? Even at his best, Azhar was suspect on bouncy tracks. Now that his reflexes are slow, it would be even more difficult for him to overcome his limitations. If the selectors have the future in mind, Azhar may find himself out.

Of the 14 to be picked, 10 are automatic choices: Sachin Tendulkar, Sadagoppan Ramesh, Rahul Dravid, Saurav Ganguly, Ajay Jadeja, Nikhil Chopra, Sunil Joshi, Javagal Srinath, Venkatesh Prasad and Debashis Mohanty.

Considering MSK Prasad’s outstanding work behind the stumps and in the last match in front of it, he too should be a near certainty. That leaves three vacancies in the team. Bharadwaj or Azharuddin ?

On Indian wickets a third spinner, at least in the 14, isa must and despite Anil Kumble’s poor form of late, he should get another chance. Indian wickets are tailor-made for him and his presence is a tremendous psychological advantage for the team as well.

Before writing him completely off, Kumble deserves another try. And if he comes good again, he can play an important role on the tough tour of Australia.

That leaves one slot, that of the second opener’s. Here again there is a possibility of Jadeja being made to open again so that Azharuddin can be accommodated in the side. But Jadeja has always struggled against the moving ball and in the long-term interest of the team, India has to find a man who can show the skill and patience which this role demands. The last time India picked a Test side — the Asia Cup final — Bengal’s Debang Gandhi was in the squad. He did not get an opportunity as India failed to qualify for the final.

The likely 14: S Tendulkar (captain), S Ramesh, D Gandhi/VVS Laxman, R Dravid, S Ganguly, A Jadeja, V. Bharadwaj/MAzharuddin, MSK Prasad, N Chopra, S Joshi, A Kumble, J Srinath, V Prasad, and D Mohanty.