One of the notable highlights for India in the recently concluded ODI series against Australia was the impressive performance of Suryakumar Yadav. After establishing himself as a dominant force in the T20 format, Suryakumar showcased his capabilities in the early matches of the series, raising optimism for India’s prospects in the upcoming World Cup. However, the opinion of cricket legend Virender Sehwag on Suryakumar’s ODI form is somewhat skeptical.
Sehwag expressed his view that Suryakumar’s primary role in the team appeared to be in the final 15-20 overs of the innings, where he could effectively utilize his T20 skills. Nevertheless, he also pointed out that other players such as Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan, and KL Rahul possessed the ability to fulfill a similar role.
“Suryakumar hasn’t made a significant impact in ODI cricket as of yet. He tends to bat predominantly in the final 15-20 overs, where his T20 expertise is undoubtedly valuable. However, the likes of Hardik, Ishan, and Rahul are equally capable of performing in that capacity. Consequently, Iyer is a confirmed choice for the No. 4 position. Suryakumar will need to be patient, and if he does get an opportunity at No. 4, he must score a substantial century to demonstrate his capability to notch up big scores as well,” Sehwag remarked during a discussion on Cricbuzz.
In another significant development, India has announced the inclusion of veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin as a replacement for Axar Patel in the 15-member squad for the upcoming Cricket World Cup. Axar has yet to recover from a left quadriceps strain that he sustained during the Asia Cup Super Four match against Bangladesh. Ravichandran Ashwin, who recently made a comeback to the format against Australia, made an impression by taking four wickets in two games during the series against Australia.
India possesses a wealth of options in the middle order. KL Rahul, who has been in excellent form since his return during the Asia Cup clash against Pakistan, will don the wicket-keeping gloves and play a pivotal role at number 5. Shreyas Iyer demonstrated promise with a century in the second ODI in Indore, while Ishan Kishan has been utilized in various positions in the middle order.
India’s Cricket World Cup squad consists of:
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Hardik Pandya
- Shubman Gill
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shardul Thakur
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Shami
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Ishan Kishan
- Suryakumar Yadav
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