In a very important encounter during the ongoing Asia Cup 2023, Team India, led by the astute Rohit Sharma, finds itself competing for the third consecutive day. A twist of fate dictated the course of events, with rain playing spoilsport during the first Super 4 game against Pakistan, necessitating the match to spill over into the reserve day. However, it’s not rain but strategy that led to Shardul Thakur, a standout performer, being sidelined in today’s clash against Sri Lanka, making way for the inclusion of Axar Patel.
The intense face-off between India and Pakistan, originally scheduled for Sunday (September 11), was abruptly curtailed after fewer than 25 overs due to persistent rain. The riveting contest reached its climax on Monday (September 11), with India emerging victorious in resplendent fashion, trouncing Pakistan by an imposing 228 runs and setting the tone for their Super 4 campaign.
Now, with their sights firmly set on a third consecutive triumph, India faces co-hosts Sri Lanka on Tuesday (September 12). While it seemed logical to continue with the same playing eleven that dismantled Pakistan, India has made one strategic alteration.
Shardul Thakur, who left an indelible mark with a pivotal performance against Pakistan, has been omitted from the starting eleven for this crucial match. Notably, he bowled four impeccable overs against Pakistan, securing the pivotal wicket of Mohammad Rizwan while conceding just 16 runs. However, speaking at the toss, Captain Rohit Sharma clarified that this decision wasn’t a reflection of Thakur’s performance but rather a response to the playing conditions.
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Confirming that Axar Patel has taken Shardul Thakur’s place in the playing XI, Rohit Sharma articulated that the dry pitch prompted this decision. With Axar’s inclusion, India now boasts three spinners in the lineup, with Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja complementing the trio. “The pitch looks different, a lot drier with no grass. Hence, we bring in Axar for Shardul. It might assist the spinners, but we also have three quality pacers,” Rohit Sharma explained.
Pressed about the challenge of playing on the third consecutive day, Rohit Sharma remained undaunted. He recognized it as part and parcel of the sport, emphasizing the adaptability required as a player and as a team.
“We are going to have a bat. That’s the challenge you come across as a sportsman, different challenges thrown at you as a player and as a team. We ensured everyone got into the pool after the game last night. They are fresh as we had five days off before these two games,” Rohit Sharma stated.
With a stellar performance against Pakistan boosting their confidence, India aims to maintain their winning streak and secure a place in the Asia Cup 2023 final. A victory against Sri Lanka would cement their spot in the tournament’s pinnacle event, with the Men in Blue riding high on the momentum generated by their resounding 228-run victory over Pakistan.
