India is gearing up to launch their ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 campaign against Australia on October 8 in Chennai. This follows a recent three-match ODI series clash between the two teams, serving as their final opportunity to fine-tune preparations for the prestigious tournament.
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On Thursday evening, India unveiled their definitive 15-man squad for the World Cup, featuring a notable change. The injured Axar Patel has been replaced by Ravichandran Ashwin, who stepped in after initially missing selection.
Renowned cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar has now revealed his chosen playing XI for India’s inaugural World Cup match against Australia.
Gavaskar underscored the pivotal role played by the top three batters in any team, emphasizing that a strong start from the openers sets the tone for those who follow, allowing them to play with greater freedom.
His selected XI comprises three seamers and two spinners, with Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav taking up the spin bowling responsibilities.
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Gavaskar’s XI prominently features three fast bowlers – Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Jasprit Bumrah. However, he also contemplated the possibility of including an additional spinner like Ashwin, should the team opt for two seamers, taking into account Hardik Pandya’s presence as the sixth bowler.
Former cricketer Irfan Pathan, while in agreement with the top seven batsmen, laid emphasis on India fielding five proficient bowlers. He pointed out that with matches potentially being played under lights, the dew factor could become a significant concern.
Pathan argued, “I agree with the top seven. (But) I want the Indian team to go with a full complement of five bowlers. While Hardik Pandya serves as the sixth bowler, the team should go for bowlers who possess the ability to take wickets.”
He further recommended, “Therefore, opt for frontline bowlers, whether it’s three fast bowlers, namely Siraj, Shami, and Bumrah, or if the conditions favor spin, select a genuine spinner like Jadeja. Opt for bowlers whose primary focus is taking wickets. The top seven batters can effectively handle the run-scoring responsibilities.”
Sunil Gavaskar’s Playing XI:
- Rohit Sharma
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
