India’s cricketing landscape is abuzz with excitement and anticipation as the national team’s World Cup squad begins to take shape. The squad for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup has witnessed some crucial selections and an intriguing strategic decision that promises to shape India’s campaign in the tournament.
In a carefully analyzed selection process, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, and Suryakumar Yadav have secured their spots in the World Cup squad. However, the omission of Sanju Samson, Prasidh Krishna, and Yuzvendra Chahal has raised a few eyebrows.
One of the most significant developments is the confirmation that KL Rahul is fit to perform a dual role, functioning both as an opener and a wicketkeeper. This strategic move opens up a world of possibilities for the team’s composition.
As per the current plan, India will commence their World Cup campaign with KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma as their opening pair. This decision is partly influenced by Shubman Gill’s recent form, which hasn’t quite reached its prime. Captain Virat Kohli is expected to continue his exceptional batting at his regular position, number 3.
Ishan Kishan, who has been in terrific form, will be slotted in at number 4. With Shubman Gill not in the playing 11, the stage is set for Suryakumar Yadav, popularly known as Sky, to make his entrance and occupy the crucial number 5 position.
Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja will follow at number 6 and 7, respectively, bringing their all-round prowess to the forefront. The bowling attack will feature Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Jasprit Bumrah, forming a formidable quartet ready to unleash their skills on the World Cup stage.
The only lingering concern leading into the World Cup was KL Rahul’s fitness. While the versatile player has been recuperating since the IPL due to a thigh injury, he suffered another niggle that ruled him out of India’s initial Asia Cup matches against Pakistan and Nepal. However, Rahul’s rigorous training at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) suggests his fitness is on the mend.
While there may be concerns about Rahul’s lack of match practice, the upcoming three ODIs against Australia are expected to help him regain his rhythm ahead of India’s World Cup opener against Australia in Chennai on October 8. As the excitement builds for this marquee cricketing event, fans around the world eagerly anticipate the thrilling showdowns and outstanding performances.
Also Read: Why Suryakumar Yadav will not play a single match in World Cup 2023
Full Playing 11 of the Indian Team for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- KL Rahul
- Virat Kohli
- Ishan Kishan
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Mohammed Shami