Hardik Pandya, Karun Nair in contention for Test debut, families remain cool

Mumbai: While the fans of Hardik Pandya and Karun Nair are debating as to who should make his Test debut ahead of the other, the families of both the cricketers are not losing sleep ahead of the first Test against England commencing in Rajkot on Wednesday.

"We are not thinking too much on this. If Hardik gets a chance this time, it is OK. If not, will wait for his next chance to play for India," Pandya's father, Himanshu, said.  

"We are content that he could get a chance in the India team. It is up to the team management who should play in the final eleven," he added.

Unlike in Australia or England where the final eleven is often announced at least 2 days before the commencement of the Test, the same practice is not followed in India.

"I think the team management may have hinted the final composition to the players by now."

"For the home series, it is better if this practice (not announcing the final eleven early) is not followed. Thus the team management gets chance to decide on final eleven till the last minute and the same can be altered even after watching the wicket, seeing the players in the net sessions and judging the fitness of the players," Himanshu Pandya observed. 

Karun Nair's father, Kaladharan, however, believes that this adds extra pressure on both players.

"If the final eleven is known to both (Pandya and Karun), whoever is chosen will be able to concentrate more and set the strategy without having tension and thoughts on whether he would get a chance or not...," Kaladharan added.

"However, I can not suggest whether to go as per the practice adopted by England and Australia. It is up to the BCCI and the team management to decide," he further added.   

Coach Kumble and captain Kohli have kept them guessing till then.