ICC World Cup 2023: Ex-Selector’s Recommendation to Address India’s Middle-Order Woes

With the eagerly awaited thirteenth edition of the ICC World Cup 2023 inching closer, the Indian cricket team finds itself in the midst of preparation and deliberation.

The countdown to the eagerly awaited ICC World Cup 2023 has begun, with less than two months remaining until the thirteenth edition of the ODI cricket extravaganza kicks off. As anticipation mounts, the Indian cricket team finds itself in a state of flux, far from achieving a settled lineup.

ICC World Cup 2023: Ex-Selector's Recommendation to Address India's Middle-Order Woes

The pivotal concern looming over Team India is the conundrum within the middle order. This issue has persistently plagued the team’s performance for a considerable period. The haunting echoes of a similar scenario during the last ODI World Cup still resonate, when Vijay Shankar was unexpectedly chosen over Ambati Rayudu, yielding unfavorable results.

In a recent candid admission, skipper Rohit Sharma acknowledged the team’s ongoing struggle to unearth a dependable number four batsman, a void left since the departure of the legendary Yuvraj Singh from international cricket. As the Men in Blue strive to strike the right equilibrium for the all-important World Cup, insights from former India all-rounder and selector Sandeep Patil shed light on the potential composition of Team India for the upcoming tournament.

In a discussion on Star Sports, several ex-Indian cricket luminaries dissected the ideal team combination for the impending World Cup. Ravi Shastri, the former all-rounder and head coach, contended that if Ishan Kishan were to open alongside Rohit Sharma, then the middle order could feature both Suryakumar Yadav and the uncapped prodigy Tilak Varma. Sandeep Patil concurred with this perspective.

Also Read: Asia Cup 2023: India Strongest Playing 11 against Pakistan

“Absolutely, I am in favor of handing a debut to Tilak Varma. Alongside him, Suryakumar Yadav is another strong contender. The exact playing XI could be determined based on the opposition we face,” emphasized Sandeep Patil.

While this dual selection of Suryakumar and Varma would seemingly leave the team without a designated backup wicketkeeper, Patil dismissed this concern. Citing the backdrop of the tournament being hosted on home soil, he confidently remarked, “I believe the need for a backup wicketkeeper is not imperative given the home advantage. And in the event of an unforeseen situation with Ishan Kishan, we have the option of bringing in Sanju Samson without any undue hassle.”

In the current scheme of affairs, Ishan Kishan holds the mantle of the team’s preferred wicketkeeper, filling in the void left by KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant. However, Rahul’s imminent return to action could potentially position him as the primary wicketkeeper for the World Cup, further solidifying Team India’s strategy.

ICC World Cup 2023: Ex-Selector's Recommendation to Address India's Middle-Order Woes

As the nation’s hopes and aspirations converge on the World Cup stage, the selection of an adept middle-order lineup assumes paramount importance. With expert insights and perspectives shaping the team’s direction, cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the unfolding of events in the highly anticipated ICC World Cup 2023.

IPL 2024

Related articles

CSK vs DC Pitch Report: Will Spinners Dominate or Will Batters Rule in Chennai? Know the Pitch Conditions for This Match

In the 17th match of IPL 2025, Chennai Super Kings will face Delhi Capitals at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Both teams have...

IPL 2025 LSG vs MI- Ekana Stadium Pitch Report Today Match

When Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants face off in the Indian Premier League (IPL) match on Friday, all eyes will be on the...

Mitchell Santner Family- Father, Mother, Siblings

Born on February 5, 1992, Mitchell Josef Santner is a versatile New Zealand international cricketer, showcasing his skills across all formats of the game....

KKR vs SRH 2025 Playing 11: Kolkata and Hyderabad Eager to Return to Winning Ways – Check Predicted Lineups

Despite having star players, Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad have not had an ideal start to IPL 2025. Both teams have played three...

KKR vs SRH: Who Will Win Today’s Match? Stats to Determine the Stronger Team

Kolkata Knight Riders will take the field at their home ground, Eden Gardens Stadium, on April 3 to face Sunrisers Hyderabad. Both teams have...

RCB vs GT- Bengaluru Pitch Report, Weather Forecast and IPL Stats

The 14th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 will witness an exciting clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Gujarat Titans (GT)...

BCCI Central Contract 2025- Comeback for Shreyas Iyer But Ishan Kishan Snubbed Again

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the list of centrally contracted players soon. Shreyas Iyer, who played...

IPL 2025: Rajasthan Royals Captain Riyan Parag Faces Huge Loss, Fined Despite Winning the Match

Rajasthan Royals (RR) secured their first victory in IPL 2025 by defeating Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 6 runs in the 11th match of...