In preparation for the upcoming Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup, India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, and captain, Rohit Sharma, seem to be following a distinctive mantra: “Balance is not something you find, it is something you create.” Their meticulous planning is evident in the composition of India’s squad as they aim to break a 12-year drought for an ICC title on home soil in October-November.
Focus on Balance
One notable aspect of India’s squad selection is the absence of an off-spinner, despite having two capable options in R. Ashwin and Washington Sundar. Similarly, there is a lack of a left-arm pacer, even though Arshdeep Singh and Jaydev Unadkat have been in contention for the past 10 months.
This omission is not a reflection of the quartet’s abilities, especially in Indian conditions. Rather, it reflects the team management’s emphasis on achieving the right balance by ensuring at least six bowling options and eight batters for every game.
Shardul Thakur’s Crucial Role
As a result, Shardul Thakur and Axar Patel have secured their spots in the squad. While Shardul’s economy rate and batting prowess may raise questions, he has been India’s trump card in ODIs since the last World Cup. Not only does he take crucial wickets against all odds, but he also contributes valuable runs when the team needs it most.
Axar Patel’s Versatility
Similarly, Axar Patel offers a valuable all-rounder’s option, despite sharing a skill set that bears an uncanny resemblance to that of Ravindra Jadeja. Additionally, Kuldeep Yadav’s ability to turn the ball away from left-handed batters further solidified the decision to omit both off-spinners.
Balancing the Pace Trio
With a focus on having a batting option at No. 8, the pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj is unlikely to feature together regularly. Depending on the playing conditions, one of these primary pace bowlers will have to make way for either Shardul or Axar.
Rohit Sharma’s Perspective
Addressing the squad selection, Rohit Sharma stated, “That’s the best we could do. We looked at everything and every possible way of getting the players in. There will be players who miss out, but that happens in every World Cup. Always a disappointment when some players miss out, but you can get only 15 in. So much talent in India. I have gone through it, I know how it feels, so keep your chin up. For us, it was about balance and all-round options. This is the best 15 we could do.”
As India’s cricketing stars prepare to take the field in the Men’s ODI Cricket World Cup, their focus on creating a balanced and versatile squad reflects their determination to bring home the coveted title. The cricketing world awaits with bated breath to see if this unique strategy will lead India to triumph on their home turf.
