New Delhi: Flurry of runs in IPL is not enough for Rahul Tripathi to walk into the Indian team. It will require a consistent effort, says Harbhajan Singh.
Rahul Tripathi has taken IPL by storm in every sense. Straight from the Maharashtra Cricket Association stadium to the grand stages of IPL – the transition has been smooth and yielding. But senior pro Harbhajan feels one should not even think of seeing the youngster in Indian colours this early.
“It’s too early to even think about Tripathi’s India selection. A lot of cricketers score runs in IPL but that doesn’t mean everyone will get an immediate chance to represent India. That is the problem with us, we start dreaming about seeing a particular youngster in the Indian team too early,” said Harbhajan in an exclusive chat with ABP News.
However, Harbhajan did agree to the fact that the man who single handedly took Risng Pune Supergiant to victory with a scintillating knock of 93 off 52 against the mighty Kolkata Knight Riders is a bundle of talent.
“I’m not saying he (Tripathi) is not playing well. He is a great talent and has been scoring consistently in the IPL,” said Harbhajan.
But the Mumbai Indians off-spinner was quick to point out that international cricket is a different ball game altogether. The jump may not be that simple.
“When you think about the prospect of playing for India, it’s a bigger challenge. When you’re up against Australia or England you’ll face five bowlers of the same quality, which is not the case every time in IPL,” Harbhajan added.
Tripathi failed to close out the match faltering at the very last over of Chirs Woakes, but the hard hitting right hander had already slammed 7 sixes and 9 fours to take his side on the brink of an important victory in the run to playoffs.
Tripathi has so far scored 352 runs, ranking fourth in the race to the Orange Cap, which is at the moment fitted on David Warner’s head with 489 runs.
Opening the batting Tripathi has played a crucial role in Pune’s sudden rise in the points table and Harbhajan feels they have peaked at the right time.
“I have been saying this for quite a while now that any team can beat anybody on a given day. So, I don’t consider Pune beating KKR an upset. In fact Pune have peaked at the right time.”
Harbhajan also went to the extent of naming the top four sides, who he believes are assured to make it to the playoffs.
“Now it is pretty clear to me. The four teams to reach the playoffs will be Mumbai Indians, Sunrisers (Hyderabad), Kolkata (Knight Riders) and Rising Pune Supergiant,” said a clear cut Harbhajan Singh.