Pujara on Manav Suthar snub for NZ Tests: ‘Has played enough Ranji Trophy’

Former India batsman Cheteshwar Pujara expressed surprise over the omission of young spinner Manav Suthar from India's Test squad for the New Zealand tour. Speaking to Star Sports, Pujara stated that Suthar should have been included at least as a reserve to gain valuable exposure in overseas conditions. He emphasized that touring New Zealand would have helped prepare the spinner for future assignments, including India's upcoming five-Test series against Australia.

Pujara noted that Indian tours to New Zealand are infrequent, making overseas learning opportunities rare for young cricketers. He argued that Suthar has sufficient domestic experience and did not need to prioritize more Ranji Trophy matches over the tour. Additionally, Pujara voiced concerns regarding the inexperience in India's pace attack due to the absence of Jasprit Bumrah.