Amidst growing anticipation and fervor surrounding the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has dropped a bombshell by unveiling their long-awaited squad for the marquee event. Cricket enthusiasts worldwide are in for a treat as BCCI’s announcement promises a formidable Indian contingent, captained by none other than the illustrious Rohit Sharma, setting their sights on cricket’s most coveted prize.
One of the most pressing concerns ahead of the squad’s revelation was the fitness status of two pivotal players, Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul. Both had endured prolonged spells on the sidelines due to injuries, sparking fears about their World Cup participation. In a reassuring twist, BCCI laid these concerns to rest by confirming the full recovery and availability of these key assets, injecting immense strength into India’s campaign.
Suryakumar Yadav, the explosive middle-order batsman, has successfully retained his spot in the ODI squad, despite spending significant time warming the benches in recent matches. BCCI’s reasoning behind this decision centers on the paramount importance of maintaining a robust bench strength, ensuring adaptability throughout the World Cup journey.
The squad’s composition adheres largely to expectations, but it does come with notable exclusions. Players such as T. Natarajan, Sanju Samson, and Prasidh Krishna, who were part of the contingent in the ongoing Asia Cup in Sri Lanka, haven’t made the cut for the World Cup. Amidst these omissions, Jasprit Bumrah stands as an exception, confirming his place in the final 15 and further establishing himself as one of the globe’s premier fast bowlers. Bumrah is flanked by a stellar pace battery comprising Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Shardul Thakur, complemented by the versatile allrounder Hardik Pandya, shaping a fearsome attack.
In the spin department, Yuzvendra Chahal, who was overlooked for the Asia Cup, remains on the fringes, with Kuldeep Yadav emerging as the solitary wrist-spinner in the World Cup squad. The experienced duo of Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel are poised to provide substantial spin options, adding depth and dexterity to India’s bowling artillery.
Ishan Kishan, the young batting sensation who recently displayed his mettle with a crucial half-century in India’s opening Asia Cup clash against arch-rivals Pakistan, retains his berth as the backup wicketkeeper-batsman in the squad. This underscores the team’s commitment to ensuring comprehensive coverage across all facets of the game.
Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (VC), Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah