Why Gambhir & Nair shouldn't be a part of your fantasy teams for the Indore Test

AS INDIA prepares to take on the Kiwis for the final time in the three-match Test series, the host have called youngster Karun Nair into the side in place of the injured Shikhar Dhawan. That said, it is unlikely that Karun will get a chance to open the innings alongside Murali Vijay. Given Gautam Gambhir’s recent run in the domestic circuit and experience, the southpaw is almost guaranteed to get the nod ahead in Indore.

Regardless of who opens the batting, we at TFG feel that both batsmen shouldn’t be a part of your fantasy cricket teams. And, we are more than glad to justify our stand.

Firstly, there is always uncertainty and doubt on who will get the final nod to open the innings. While Gambhir is being talked about as the favourite in the media, the debutant might also end up getting an opportunity. Considering that the series is in the bag already, we cannot completely rule out Nair’s inclusion for this Test. Our point is of you are unsure on who will eventually take to the field, why pick them? Also, there is always a danger of playing handicap in fantasy leagues if your chosen player is omitted from the team. 

Secondly, both players will be nervous coming into this Test. While Nair will be jittery given his debut, Gambhir would be desperate to prove his detractors wrong by getting runs on the board. That said, both batsmen will be jittery and that might not actually bring out the best in them. Moreover, why do you really want to pick someone who is just coming into the team? Remember, Gambhir is a veteran, but the pressure he will be under to perform might not work in his favour.  

Finally, as you are aware, there are only maximum five slots available for batsmen per round across portals. Given the decent run of Indian batsmen in Murali Vijay, C Pujara, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane, it would be a folly to rope in Gambhir or Nair in your fantasy teams. 

However, it’s not to be forgotten that you can play five Indian batsmen, but in that case, you will need to sacrifice on the Indian bowlers, which will be a folly. Also, if you pick all Indian batsmen, it is obvious that Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson won’t find a spot. In our opinion, ignoring Williamson and joining fantasy leagues will be equivalent to doing some charity. 

Come Saturday, either Nair will make his debut or Gambhir might be given another chance, but we would advise you to completely ignore both from your fantasy teams.