Nobody understands the pain of being left out of a World Cup squad more than VVS Laxman. In the 2003 World Cup, he was left gutted after Dinesh Mongia was picked ahead of him. Playing in cricket’s showpiece event remained an unfulfilled dream for the wristy batsman. Thus he could relate to Ambati Rayudu’s disappointment after he was ignored for the World Cup in the UK.
“It will be very disappointing for Rayudu because I felt he had done everything possible to be in that squad. Since the West Indies series (Oct 2018), where he was asked to bat at No 4, he has consistently performed in that position. He was the highest run-getter in the series, so I was a little surprised they didn’t go with the experience of Rayudu even after performing. It will be very, very painful. I have experienced that in 2003. But as an international sportsperson, it is important to bounce back strongly, and I hope Rayudu does that” he said.
However, Laxman also feels that Vijay Shankar has the capability to justify batting at number 4.
“He is very good, a talented player. He has got an opportunity in the World Cup and it is important he grabs it. He is very hard working. I just wish everyone in the Indian team goes out and plays to potential because they have the ability to lift the World Cup. For me, India and England start favourites” he added.
