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As the deadline for finalizing squads for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 approaches, the cricketing world has been abuzz with speculation about the inclusion of star Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. While Ashwin’s name was conspicuously absent from the India men’s squad announced earlier this month, his subsequent inclusion in the squad for the home ODI series against Australia ignited hope among fans and pundits alike.
The initial omission of Ashwin from the India men’s squad for the upcoming global cricket spectacle left many cricket enthusiasts perplexed. Experts and fans alike pondered whether the spinner was still a part of the Indian team management’s plans for the tournament. Ashwin’s inclusion for the Australia series was seen as a potential lifeline, opening the door for him to secure a spot in the final World Cup squad.
Dravid remains cautious about Ashwin’s inclusion
The suspense surrounding Ashwin’s fate in the ODI World Cup 2023 squad is expected to end soon, as all participating teams must finalize their squads by Thursday, September 28. Amid this uncertainty, India’s head coach, Rahul Dravid, shed light on the situation during a post-match press conference.
Dravid refrained from making any definitive statements regarding Ashwin’s inclusion in the World Cup squad, emphasizing the need for an official confirmation. The former India skipper explained that the National Cricket Academy (NCA) is in contact with chief selector Ajit Agarkar, and any announcements would come through official channels.
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“We have to wait for an official confirmation or a decision on that. The NCA is in touch with the selectors and Ajit (Agarkar), so I will not make any comments on that. If there is any change, you will get to hear about it officially. As of now, there are no changes,” Dravid stated in the post-match presser.
Positive developments for key players
While the Ashwin saga continues, Dravid expressed relief that several key players, including Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer, were able to gain valuable match practice and fitness ahead of the ODI World Cup. He noted that game time was crucial for these players, particularly those returning from injuries.
“Jassi has been able to play a couple of games and bowl his quota of 10 overs. KL as well, the keeping right through the 50 overs, he is coming off after almost 6-7 months. Shreyas has played a couple of really good knocks in the last couple of games. We know we have to keep improving but also hope that we carry this momentum into the World Cup,” added Dravid.
