Former Indian wicket-keeper bat Kiran More has urged the selectors and team management to back spinners in the upcoming World Cup. More wants India to play with both Axar Patel and Ravichandran Ashwin in the playing XI if the conditions are conducive for the spinners and leave out Shardul Thakur.
Axar Patel is currently in the World Cup squad but he could not play against Australia due to quadriceps injury. On the other hand, Ashwin, who is not yet part of the World Cup squad, has grabbed his opportunity with both hands, picking four wickets in two ODIs against Australia.
The selectors can name replacements in the World Cup squad till 27th September. Ergo, it is expected that if Axar Patel is ruled out of the ODI showpiece, Ashwin can come into the squad because of his vast experience.
“Both Axar and Ashwin are very good but when you look at the batting lineup of other countries, there are so many left-handers,” More told Hindustan Times.
“So, it’s important to have an off-spinner in the side. I’m not sure how the pitches will play throughout but after the monsoon, I expect the ball to hold a bit. Spinners will play a big role in the first half of the World Cup.”
Both Ashwin and Axar can contribute with the bat while batting down the order and the former selector wants the team to back the duo.
“Ashwin and Axar can bat and give the team some balance as allrounders. Either of them can be included in Shardul’s spot. And to be honest, if you can’t score with seven batters, you can’t win a match. So, if there’s turn on offer, we might have to go with three spinners,” he said.
Meanwhile, KL Rahul has made a prolific return to the game as he has scored consistently. Rahul scored 111 runs against Pakistan in his comeback match whereas he has scored two half-centuries against Australia while leading from the front.
“I believe Rahul will do a great job for India at the World Cup,” said the former India stumper. “He did very well in the Asia Cup and mind you, he’s made a comeback after a really long injury layoff. He has very good hands and has already taken a couple of fine catches. He’s a big player and it’s a good sign for India that he’s gaining confidence in both departments,” he said.
The third ODI of the series will be played at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot on Wednesday.
