Hardik Pandya’s presence as a fast bowler in the Indian cricket team allows them to experiment with playing three specialist spinners in the upcoming World Cup, according to skipper Rohit Sharma. India has the spin trio of Kuldeep Yadav, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja in their squad, and Sharma hinted that all three could be included in the playing XI for their opening match against Australia. The pitch at Chepauk, where the match will take place, is expected to provide assistance to spinners.
Sharma clarified that Pandya should not be perceived solely as a seamer but rather as a genuine fast bowler who can generate good speed. This gives the team the luxury of playing both spinners and seamers. Furthermore, including Ashwin in the playing XI would provide India with additional batting depth.
Sharma emphasized the importance of consistency in the playing eleven, stating that 9 or 10 players, depending on fitness, will be retained throughout the tournament. However, the final playing XI will be determined based on the playing conditions. Sharma believes that the World Cup is not a platform for personal preferences but rather a collective effort to achieve the team’s goals.
Addressing the middle-order conundrum, Sharma stated that experienced players like Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav have the knowledge and expertise to assess the conditions and adapt accordingly. The team provides them with role clarity and freedom to execute their skills.
Regarding opener Shubman Gill, who is currently ill with dengue, Sharma expressed concern for his health and prioritized his recovery over playing in the match against Australia. While Gill’s absence is unfortunate, Sharma expressed confidence in his quick recovery due to his young and fit physique.
(In terms of topics discussed in this article: Hardik Pandya, World Cup, spinners, Rohit Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, playing XI, Chepauk, Australia, fast bowler, seamer, batting depth, consistency, personal preferences, middle-order, Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill)