Re: Bye bye Kaif
One of the aspects that needs to be differentiated from India's point of view is the recognition of quality players, those who are currently playing in the side and those who, unfortunately, have been forced to place their one foot out the door (for one reason or another) whilst making it easy for the selection committee in terms of picking and choosing. Kaif is a very exceptional player, and many will agree to that. Instead of constant up-bringing of younger cricketers and re-shaping the team on every corner possible, Kaif should be one individual who has showed alot of heart, determination and character on several previous ocassions, and it is now time to go back and recognize his brilliant past knocks. At least provide him until the end of the ODI series, all seven (7) matches, and see if he comes back in his form. Maybe he will, in bits and pieces, and maybe he will score a big one very soon (as fair_&_balance alluded to), but it is on the cards. It is not the question of if, but rather a question of when it will come, and rest assured, when that time comes, he will regain his well-deserved status back in the side.
In essence, I agree with your post. :)