The highly anticipated Asia Cup 2023 is just around the corner, and cricket enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement as they eagerly await the clash of titans from the Asian cricketing world. As the squads are announced and strategies begin to take shape, cricket pundits and fans alike have started dissecting the selections and speculating about the choices made by the teams. In this regard, India’s squad announcement for the Asia Cup 2023 has raised eyebrows due to a few questionable decisions that might potentially cost the team in the tournament.
Also Read: Asia Cup 2023 India Squad: 5 Players Who Should Have Been Selected
1. Dropping Yuzi Chahal and Picking Only One Leg Spinner
One of the most surprising decisions in the India squad announcement was the omission of Yuzvendra Chahal, a seasoned leg-spinner with a proven track record. Chahal’s absence from the squad leaves India with only one leg-spinner, leaving them vulnerable in conditions that are conducive to spin bowling. In the subcontinental pitches that are renowned for assisting spin, having more than one specialist leg-spinner could have given India an edge. This decision could potentially backfire if the sole leg-spinner in the squad faces an injury or an off day.
2. Picking KL Rahul despite His Niggle
The inclusion of KL Rahul in the squad, despite the concerns over his fitness due to a recent niggle, is a decision that raises concerns. While Rahul is undeniably a class act with the bat and brings versatility to the batting order, risking his participation in the tournament with an injury is a gamble that might not pay off. In a high-stakes tournament like the Asia Cup, where the competition is fierce, having a fully fit squad is crucial, and carrying an injured player might hamper the team’s performance.
3. Not Having Sanju Samson in the Main Squad
Sanju Samson, a talented wicket-keeper batsman, has been knocking on the doors of the national team for quite some time. However, his absence from the main squad for the Asia Cup 2023 is baffling. With the ability to play both as a top-order batsman and a wicket-keeper, Samson’s versatility could have added depth to India’s batting lineup. Not including him in the squad, especially considering the long tournament format, might leave India vulnerable if any of the primary choices face injury or poor form.
4. Not Selecting Yashasvi Jaiswal as Backup Opener\
Yashasvi Jaiswal, a young and promising opener, has made a mark in the domestic circuit and has shown glimpses of his potential on the international stage as well. With the uncertainty surrounding the fitness of KL Rahul, having a reliable backup opener becomes crucial. Not selecting Jaiswal, who has the ability to anchor the innings and build partnerships, might be a missed opportunity. In a tournament where a strong start is essential, the lack of a backup opener could be a risky move.
5. Not Picking Arshdeep Singh despite Experience
Arshdeep Singh, who gained valuable experience in the Asia Cup 2022 and the T20 World Cup 2022, has been left out of the squad. His left-arm pace and ability to swing the ball could have provided India with a unique bowling option, particularly in conditions where the ball is expected to move. Neglecting his inclusion despite his international exposure might leave India with fewer choices in the fast bowling department, potentially limiting their flexibility in crucial matches.