Rayudu's omission should be debated more than Rishabh Pant: Gambhir

Ambati Rayudu's omission from India's World Cup squad after just three failures is "heartbreaking" but there should be no debate on Rishabh Pant's exclusion as he didn't grab his chances, feels former India opener Gautam Gambhir.

Veteran Dinesh Karthik being favoured over Pant has been roundly criticised with Sunil Gavaskar calling it a surprising move. But the hero of the 2007 World T20 and 2011 World Cup final said Rayudu not making the cut is the most unfortunate bit about the squad announced on Monday.

"I think there should be no debate about Rishabh Pant's exclusion but more about Ambati Rayudu," Gambhir told PTI during an interview here Tuesday.

"It is very, very unfortunate that someone averaging 48 in white-ball cricket and is only 33 has been left out. That for me is more heartbreaking than any other selection decision," said the outspoken Gambhir.

Rayudu was called India's first-choice No.4 by captain Virat Kohli a few months ago but low scores in the home series against Australia last month led to a rethink by the selectors.

Gambhir was not picked for the 2007 World Cup in the West Indies and for a brief period contemplated quitting.

"I feel sorry for him as I was in a similar position in 2007, when they (erstwhile selectors) didn't pick me and I know how difficult it is not being picked for the World Cup. Ultimately for any young kid, it is a childhood dream to be a part of the big event. So, I feel more sorry for Rayudu more than any other cricketer, who hasn't been picked."
Can a player focus on the IPL?
"It's up to the selectors...I mean whether to go with Rishabh Pant or experience of DK. Now we have to back whoever is going as it's not important who has gone but focus should be on bringing the World Cup home."