The recent selection of India's Asia Cup 2025 squad has stirred considerable debate, with former Australian wicketkeeper Brad Haddin entering the fray and subsequently facing criticism from Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar. Gavaskar expressed his disapproval of overseas cricketers commenting on Indian team selections, asserting that it is "none of their business". Haddin, however, has defended his position, stating that it is his job to offer opinions on global cricket matters.
Gavaskar's criticism came in response to commentary, particularly from overseas, questioning the omission of Shreyas Iyer from the Asia Cup squad, despite what some perceived as a strong IPL campaign. Iyer, who led the Punjab Kings to the final, was not even included in the reserves, sparking considerable criticism aimed at chief selector Ajit Agarkar. Gavaskar, in his column for The Sportstar, questioned the right of foreigners with "zero stake in Indian cricket" to weigh in on team selection.
Haddin, currently an assistant coach with Shreyas Iyer at the Punjab Kings in the IPL, responded to Gavaskar's remarks with a touch of humor, stating, "I am glad he is listening to the show. We are going worldwide". More seriously, Haddin stood by his opinion regarding Iyer's exclusion. He emphasized that providing opinions on cricket worldwide is part of his job.
This isn't the first time Gavaskar has taken aim at overseas opinions on Indian cricket. Earlier in the year, during Australia's tour of India, Gavaskar subtly criticized Australian commentators for potentially complaining about the green Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) pitch, suggesting that Indian players are more accepting of diverse playing conditions. He noted that while an unusually grassy pitch in Sydney might have drawn criticism from overseas voices had the situation been reversed in India, Indian players generally refrain from complaining, understanding the need to adapt to different conditions.
Gavaskar has also, more broadly, expressed strong opinions about the culture within Indian cricket. Following India's 1-3 loss to Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, Gavaskar criticized the "star culture" he believes is prevalent in the Indian team. He urged the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to implement stricter measures to ensure accountability and commitment to the sport. Gavaskar emphasized that "total commitment to Indian cricket is non-negotiable". He has also, in the past, highlighted the importance of players participating in domestic cricket to maintain form and demonstrate commitment.
The exchange between Gavaskar and Haddin highlights the differing perspectives on the role of international commentators and the specific issue of team selection in cricket. Gavaskar's stance reflects a desire to protect Indian cricket from external criticism, particularly from those he believes lack a deep understanding of the domestic game. Haddin, on the other hand, sees it as his professional responsibility to offer his views on cricket matters globally, regardless of national boundaries.
