Former Indian selectors Chetan Sharma and Salil Ankola was caught offguard on Wednesday while doing commentary in the Ranji Trophy match between Maharashtra and Kerala. A former Kerala batter Jalaj Saxena, who is currently representing the opponent, became a topic of discussion the moment he came to bat. Maharashtra was five down when Saxena was batting. The moment his stats flashed on the screen, Ankola was heard saying that it was "surprising" that Saxena never represented India. Ankola said, "Very surprising that Saxena has never played for India." Hitting back at Saxena, Chetan Sharma replied, "Salil, you used one word-'very surprising'-but let me tell you, we were both former selectors." Thereafter Ankola taunted back, "And you were the chairman!" Chetan concluded the banter with a wry grin, "Fingers must've been raised at us as well." When they showed Jalaj Saxena's domestic stats one commentator said he has such great stats but it's surprising that he hasn't played for India and the other commentator replied"Surprisingly" both of us were the selectors and you were the chairman. pic.twitter.com/QvtzZEbWkG https://t.co/q8kHY6rkkv — Aditya Soni (@imAdsoni) October 15, 2025 The playful exchange quickly caught the eye of social media users, as cricket enthusiasts pointed out that together they had managed selection periods from 2020 to 2024—years during which Jalaj Saxena consistently performed in domestic cricket but never received an international call-up. Read also: Lucknow Super Giants ropes in Kane Williamson prior to 2026 IPL Auction; but will he bat? Jalaj Saxena domestic career Debuting in 2005, Jalaj Saxena has enjoyed a prolific first-class career, representing domestic sides with remarkable consistency. Over 150 matches, he has scored 7,060 runs at an average of 33.77, including 14 centuries and 34 fifties, with a highest score of 194. His batting, often underappreciated, has been a reliable source of runs in the middle and lower order. With the ball, Saxena has been equally impressive, delivering 27,045 balls to claim 484 wickets at an average of 25.48. His first-class record features 10 ten-wicket hauls and 34 five-wicket hauls, with best innings figures of 9/68 and match figures of 16/154, highlighting his match-winning abilities. A genuine all-rounder, Saxena has also contributed in the field, taking 48 catches, showcasing his versatility. Despite these stellar numbers, consistent international opportunities eluded him, making him one of Indian domestic cricket’s most accomplished yet underrated performers.