KSCA selection committee chairman says, Manish Pandey out of Karnataka squad to pave way for youngsters
Experienced batter Manish Pandey has been dropped from the Karnataka team across all formats, as confirmed by KSCA men’s selection committee chairman J. Abhiram. The 35-year-old was not included in the probable list for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, starting later this month.
Abhiram explained that it is time to provide opportunities for younger players to step up. “Manish has had a fantastic career; no doubt about it. But at some stage, you have to make way for youngsters,” he stated, highlighting promising talents like PrakharChaturvedi, AneeshwarGautam, and K.V. Aneesh.
Pandey served as vice-captain during this season’s Ranji Trophy but will not return for the second leg of the tournament next month. Abhiram noted that K.V. Aneesh would likely replace him, emphasizing the need for young players to capitalize on their chances.
“I spoke with Pandey and explained the reasons behind this decision. We hope he stays connected with Karnataka cricket, possibly in a coaching role,” Abhiram added. Pandey has been a consistent presence in Karnataka’s lineup since his senior debut in 2007 and gained fame as the first Indian centurion in IPL history in 2009.