As the excitement builds for the impending ODI World Cup, veteran Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan has thrown his weight behind Suryakumar Yadav, endorsing him for the crucial No. 4 batting slot. In a twist of fate, the return of Shreyas Iyer, recuperating from a back injury, remains shrouded in uncertainty, casting doubts on his comeback to the professional cricket scene. Currently stationed at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, a verdict regarding Iyer’s potential participation in the World Cup is poised to unravel shortly.
Amid this backdrop of ambiguity, Dhawan boldly recommends that Suryakumar, equipped with his wealth of experience, be given serious consideration for the No. 4 position. Intriguingly, while the charismatic batter has solidified his position in the T20I squad, his impact in the realm of ODIs has yet to match that stride. Nonetheless, Dhawan’s unwavering confidence in his teammate’s abilities shines through. Moreover, he eagerly anticipates the performances of Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma on the grandest stage.
“I would go with Surya (Suryakumar Yadav) at four as he is an experienced player and has been playing international cricket for a while. Also, really looking forward to seeing how Shubman Gill does in the World Cup. Another batter to watch out for will be Rohit Sharma as he did exceptionally well in the last World Cup,” Dhawan’s statement to India Today reads.
At the age of 37, Dhawan remains steadfast in his belief that the Indian squad’s current composition strikes the right balance between the seasoned expertise of veterans and the vibrant energy of young blood. As he contemplates the impending tournament, he envisions the experience of Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Virat Kohli as a priceless asset, harmonizing seamlessly with the potential dynamism embodied by Ishan Kishan and Gill. Furthermore, the left-hander opines that the players’ familiarity with the home conditions, given the World Cup’s venue, will confer a distinct advantage.
“Our side boasts a commendable blend of experience and youthful enthusiasm. The scales are favorably tipped in our favor. With the World Cup hosted on our home soil, we are well-acquainted with the intricacies of the grounds and pitches, giving us a strategic edge,” Dhawan reiterated.
Amidst the crescendo of anticipation, Dhawan’s endorsement of Suryakumar Yadav and his unwavering confidence in India’s multi-generational arsenal underscore the collective determination to secure the coveted ODI World Cup title once more.
