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Team India are riding high in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup, currently positioned at second place in the points table after an impressive winning streak of four out of four games. However, their next challenge against New Zealand looms large, and it’s a match that holds significant importance, given Black Cap’s historical advantage in ODI World Cups.
The absence of Hardik Pandya
One of the major concerns for India is the absence of all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who has been ruled out of the upcoming match against New Zealand due to an ankle injury sustained during the game against Bangladesh. Hardik Pandya’s absence poses a significant challenge as he plays a vital role in setting the team’s balance and adds depth to the squad.
Harbhajan Singh’s suggestions
Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has weighed in on the matter, suggesting two crucial changes in the Indian playing XI for the upcoming clash against New Zealand. Harbhajan acknowledged the importance of Pandya’s role in the team’s combination and put forth his recommendations to fill the void.
- Fulfilling the Finisher Role: Harbhajan proposed that either Ishan Kishan or Suryakumar Yadav should be considered to fulfill the crucial finisher role that Pandya usually occupies. Both Kishan and Yadav have showcased their abilities in limited-overs cricket and could provide the firepower needed in the latter stages of the innings.
- Bringing in Mohammed Shami: Harbhajan also emphasized the need to bring in Mohammed Shami in place of Shardul Thakur. Shami’s ability to bowl a full quota of 10 overs makes him an attractive option, providing the team with a dependable fast-bowling resource. This change would further bolster the Indian bowling attack.
Also READ: World Cup 2023 – India all-rounder Hardik Pandya ruled out of the match against New Zealand
“It’s a big issue for India if Hardik Pandya is not fit. He sets our combination, and if he doesn’t play, then you will have to change it. You can either play Ishan Kishan or Suryakumar Yadav as a pure batter. We are playing Shardul Thakur because of his all-rounder abilities. I think you should bring Mohammed Shami in his place as he can give you solid 10 overs,” Harbhajan told Aaj Tak.
Upcoming clash with New Zealand
The upcoming clash between India and New Zealand is scheduled for October 22, 2023, in Dharamsala. This game is not only crucial for Team India’s World Cup campaign but also an opportunity to reassert themselves against a New Zealand side that has historically held an edge in the ODI World Cups.
