The ODI series between India and Australia got off to a great start for the KL Rahul-led Indian cricket team on Friday. The Indian cricket team, which is in the final stages of preparation for the Cricket World Cup, won the first match of the three ODI series between India and Australia by 5 wickets. There were great shows from Mohammed Shami, Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill, who are all part of the Indian Cricket World Cup squad.
However, one aspect that the Indian cricket team management could be concerned about ahead of the Cricket World Cup is the team’s fielding. On several occasions, while fielding and while trying to catch, the stars of the Indian cricket team were found wanting. Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif warned the team ahead of the Cricket World Cup.
“Note: India can drop the World Cup if they don’t catch well. Batting and bowling can win matches, but so can catching,” he wrote.
Note: India can drop the World Cup if they don’t score well. Batting and bowling can win matches, but so can catching.
— Mohammad Kaif (@MohammadKaif) September 22, 2023
Meanwhile, India’s policy of rotating their fast bowling options ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 has received support from veteran pacer Mohammed Shami. India have had a rotation policy for their seamers since the start of the Asia Cup. According to this, only two of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Mohammed Shami have ever played in the playing XI.
This has also meant that medium pacer Shardul Thakur, who is more adept with the bat, has been given more opportunities. While this has helped expand India’s batting innings, it has reduced the opportunities for India’s full-time fast bowlers.
Shami, for example, only played in two Asia Cup encounters. On Friday, he played the first ODI against Australia in Mohali and delivered a match-winning five-wicket haul. India won the match by five wickets.
Despite these returns, given the rotation policy, Shami’s position in the playing XI is not fixed. However, the Bangladeshi pacer is not deterred by these developments.
During his press conference after India’s victory against Australia, Shami supported the policy. He stressed the importance of players understanding their role, whether they are playing in the XI or not.
“This is an essential part of the game. It is important to understand the needs of the team. It is not possible that you will always be part of the playing XI and team combinations,” Shami said as quoted by ICC.
“If we play regularly, one or the other will have to sit out. There’s no point in being frustrated about that. It’s obviously good to be in the XI, but it’s also crucial to be understanding if you sitting on the couch.” role is also very important,” Shami added.
With ANI inputs
Topics mentioned in this article
