R Ashwin Backs Selectors After Gurnoor Brar’s Impressive India Debut
Ashwin praised selectors and coaches for backing Gurnoor Brar after the young pacer impressed with three wickets on ODI debut.
Ravichandran Ashwin has praised the Indian selectors and coaching staff for identifying and backing young pacer Gurnoor Brar, following his impressive ODI debut against Afghanistan.
The 6-foot-5 Punjab fast bowler made an immediate impact, picking up three wickets while regularly bowling above 145 km/h. He also generated movement with the new ball, showing the qualities that had convinced the selectors to give him an opportunity at the international level.
Speaking about the youngster, Ashwin said the decision by the selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar and the coaching setup under Gautam Gambhir deserved recognition.
“Gurnoor Brar, we have to say that he is really impressive. He is tall, and it seems like he is quite strong too. He bowled every ball over 145 kmph. There is a massive upside. The skill, action, and swing he gets with the new ball, there is a lot of upside with him. He can bowl even faster, he is young,” Ashwin said.
Gurnoor’s selection had sparked debate before the series, with some observers questioning why he was picked ahead of fellow pacer Auqib Nabi. However, Ashwin believes the selectors saw something special in the young fast bowler and should now be applauded for that call.
“When the selectors chose Gurnoor Brar, and not Auqib Nabi, many people talked about it. I think it was a very good spot. This is not a comparison between them, but the selectors and the coaches who saw Gurnoor have to be praised, that is a really good eye. If he stays fit and does all the right things, he can become a really big bowler for India in the future,” he added.
Gurnoor earned his maiden India call-up after strong domestic performances and had also received support from former Punjab teammate Shubman Gill. His selection was viewed as a bold move because several more experienced domestic performers were overlooked.
After a successful debut, that decision now appears to have paid off. With pace, bounce and swing already in his arsenal, Gurnoor has quickly emerged as one of India’s most exciting fast-bowling prospects.
