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The anticipation for the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is steadily growing, as the quadrennial event draws nearer. Scheduled to be hosted in India from October 5 to November 19, cricket enthusiasts around the world are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling competition.
With just over a month left until the quadreenial event kicks off, cricket experts have begun the process of selecting their ideal squads and identifying the key players for each participating team.
In a recent commentary appearance during the Asia Cup 2023 match between India and Nepal on Star Sports, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif joined the ranks of experts who have been unveiling their ideal squads for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023. However, the standout aspect of Kaif’s squad was the omission of wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, which garnered significant attention and discussion.
Also READ: Gautam Gambhir picks his India squad for ODI World Cup 2023; no place for Shreyas Iyer
Mohammad Kaif Discloses His Lineup for Team India in the ODI World Cup 2023
In Kaif’s envisioned 15-member squad, India’s top order is led by renowned batters like Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli. These players are expected to provide a strong foundation for the team’s innings. The middle order, a critical aspect of any successful campaign, is bolstered by the likes of Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav, who bring stability and power to the batting lineup.
India’s all-rounders, known for their versatility, include Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya and Shardul Thakur. These players contribute not only with the bat but also with the ball and in the field, making them valuable assets to the team.
In the fast-bowling department, India boasts a formidable trio consisting of Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. Their pace and skill will be crucial in unsettling opposition batters and taking key wickets. Complementing them is the spin department, where Kuldeep Yadav, the talented left-arm chinaman bowler, will be tasked with providing crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs.
Sanju Samson unable to secure a spot
Nevertheless, the decision regarding the wicketkeeping department has emerged as a point of debate in Kaif’s squad selection. Despite Samson’s remarkable performances in ODIs, boasting an average of over 55 and an impressive strike rate exceeding 104, his exclusion from the squad has raised eyebrows. In his place, the wicketkeeping duties have been entrusted to KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan, indicating a dual-headed approach to this vital aspect of the team’s strategy.
Mohammad Kaif’s India squad for ODI World Cup 2023:
Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, KL Rahul (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami.
