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With the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 just around the corner, anticipation and excitement are reaching fever pitch in cricket-loving India. The last time the nation secured an ICC trophy was in 2013, while the last World Cup title came in 2011 when MS Dhoni led the team to victory. This time, under the captaincy of Rohit Sharma, expectations are soaring.
In the latest development, former Indian opener and renowned cricket pundit, Gautam Gambhir, has unveiled his India squad for the highly-anticipated event. While his choices reflect a blend of experience and youthful talent, one notable exclusion has raised many eyebrows – the omission of Shreyas Iyer.
Gambhir revealed his squad while providing commentary for the Asia Cup game between India and Nepal on Star Sports. His squad choices for the ICC ODI World Cup 2023 include some of the country’s most prominent cricketing talents. At the top of the order, the squad features the likes of Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, and the dynamic Suryakumar Yadav, all of whom are expected to play crucial roles in India’s campaign.
Also READ: Asia Cup 2023 – Gautam Gambhir engage in heated exchange with Mohammad Kaif over KL Rahul vs Ishan Kishan debate
Gambhir includes KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan while Iyer finds no place
In a surprising move, Gambhir left out Iyer, despite the latter’s impressive performances and recent comeback in the Asia Cup squad. Iyer had been regarded by many as the ideal candidate for the number four position, making his absence all the more perplexing. Gambhir’s decision to exclude him has sparked heated debates among cricket enthusiasts on social media.
The wicketkeeping department sees a double-headed approach with KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan both making the cut. Gambhir’s choices for the all-rounders include the versatile Ravindra Jadeja and the hard-hitting Hardik Pandya, complemented by the promising Washington Sundar.
India’s bowling attack, often the cornerstone of their successes in major tournaments, comprises the pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Mohammed Siraj, all known for their ability to swing and seam the ball effectively. In the spin department, Gambhir has opted for the wrist-spinning prowess of Kuldeep Yadav.
Also READ: India squad for ODI World Cup 2023 finalized; KL Rahul in, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma out
Gautam Gambhir’s India squad for ODI World Cup 2023:
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami.
