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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially unveiled the India team squad that will participate in the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2023 tournament. This prestigious event is scheduled to take place in both Pakistan and Sri Lanka, commencing on August 30, 2023, and promises to be a cricketing spectacle of epic proportions.
India carries a legacy of success in the Asia Cup, having emerged victorious in the 50-over format back in 2018, under the able leadership of Rohit Sharma. As the 2023 World Cup looms on the horizon, the Indian cricketing juggernaut is set to defend its title and use this tournament as valuable preparation.
Group A of the Asia Cup has pitted India against arch-rivals Pakistan and Nepal. Men in Blue will kick off their tournament campaign with an electrifying encounter against their arch-rivals Pakistan on September 2. Following this high-octane encounter, India will take on Nepal on September 4, with both matches slated to unfold in the picturesque setting of Pallekele, Sri Lanka.
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Agarkar states ‘we had to look at the balance of the team’
The Indian Cricket Team’s squad for this continental extravaganza marks the return of three seasoned players, adding to the squad’s experience and depth. The trio of KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer and Jasprit Bumrah is set to make their comeback, further bolstering the team’s capabilities. However, amidst the inclusions, there is one glaring omission – the wrist-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, a familiar face in the white-ball cricket setup. This time, the Men in Blue have opted to include only one wrist-spinner, Kuldeep Yadav.
In a post-selection press briefing, India’s chief selector shed light on the omission of Chahal from the Asia Cup 2023 squad and provided insights into why the seasoned wrist-spinner failed to secure a spot.
“Terrific performer but we had to look at the balance of the team. To fit in two wrist spinners was difficult. We can fit only one wrist spinner. It’s unfortunate for one to miss out and right now, Kuldeep is a bit ahead,” Agarkar said.
Chahal’s performance in ODIs this year did not meet the desired standards, which prompted the team management to make a change. Kuldeep, on the other hand, has excelled in the 50-over format in 2023. The 28-year-old spinner has been exceptional, claiming an impressive 22 wickets in just 11 games, establishing himself as India’s leading wicket-taker in ODIs this year. Kuldeep’s economy rate of 4.87 showcases his exceptional control and effectiveness.
In contrast, Chahal featured in only two ODIs this year, managing to secure three wickets. Given Kuldeep’s stellar performance, Chahal’s appearances in ODIs have been limited, ultimately leading to his exclusion from the Asia Cup squad.
