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The current year has been a roller coaster ride for India’s star spinner, Yuzvendra Chahal. Although the 33-year-old had a stellar Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season and bagged 21 wickets, he couldn’t find a place in India’s ODI World Cup 2023 squad as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) gave a nod to Axar Patel ahead of him during the selection.
Axar Patel’s injury opens door, but Chahal overlooked again
Even though Axar was later ruled out due to injury, the management went with veteran Ravichandran Ashwin as the all-rounder’s replacement and once again didn’t consider Chahal for selection. However, this is not the first time that the Haryana-born cricketer has been deprived of a World Cup opportunity. He missed out on the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE and was also sidelined without getting any match opportunities in the 2022 edition, despite being a part of the team.
Also READ: England legend Stuart Broad picks his favourite team for ODI World Cup 2023
Yuzvendra Chahal admits being disheartened over exclusion
In a recent interaction with Wisden, Chahal spoke candidly about his exclusion and expressed his understanding of the management’s decision while also admitting to feeling disheartened. Chahal even touched upon his aspirations to represent India in Test cricket, emphasizing his eagerness to be on the cricket field in any format.
“I understand that only fifteen players can be a part of the squad because it’s a World Cup, where you can’t take 17 or 18. I do feel a little disheartened, but my life motto is to move on. I’m used to it now… it’s been three World Cups (laughs),” said Chahal.
“That’s why I came here [to Kent] to play because I want to be on the cricket field somehow, somewhere. I’m getting an opportunity here with the red ball, and I’m genuinely eager to represent India in Test cricket. So, it has been a valuable experience for me,” he added.
It’s worth noting that Chahal recently represented Kent County Cricket Club in the England’s County Championship, where he had a decent outing, showcasing his versatility as a cricketer.
India’s journey in ODI World Cup 2023
As far as India’s World Cup journey is concerned, the Men in Blue will begin their campaign with a highly anticipated match against the Australian side at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on October 8.
