Spinner Kartik called up by India
ADELAIDE, Australia -- Left arm spinner Murali Kartik has been rushed to Australia ahead of India's second test in Adelaide, which starts on Friday.
The 27-year-old, whose last test appearance was more than three years ago, has been called up after a lackluster performance by Harbhajan Singh in the first test.
Kartik impressed in the recent one-day tri-series against Australia and looks set to play on a spin-friendly wicket.
"We received an SOS from the team management that they require another spinner," Syed Kirmani, India's chief selector, told Reuters.
"We decided Kartik was the best choice. I suppose he will play in Adelaide."
Kartik becomes India's third spin option, alongside Harbhajan and leg spinner Anil Kumble.
Saurav Ganguly said the onus was on Harbhajan, who blames his loss of form on a long-standing finger injury, to retain his place.
"He's working hard in the nets," said Ganguly. "He has to improve and the quicker he improves the better it is for the team."
