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In the aftermath of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 final, Pakistan’s cricket legend Wasim Akram has weighed in on India’s performance, pinpointing the mistake made by Rohit Sharma’s Team India in the championship clash against Australia.
Wasim Akram highlights what went wrong for Team India in the CWC 2023 final
Akram, renowned for his astute cricket analysis, highlighted the decision not to utilize fast bowler Mohammed Siraj with the new ball as a pivotal misstep by the Indian captain. In a post-match analysis, Akram expressed his views, stating India should have stuck to the tried and opened the bowling with Jasprit Bumrah and Siraj instead of giving the new ball to Mohammed Shami.
Akram emphasized the significance of exploiting Siraj’s skill set, particularly in the early overs, where his ability to generate swing and seam movement could have posed a considerable threat to the opposition.
“They [Rohit Sharma & Co.] panicked. Shami has been effective against left-handers and has bowled well from around the wicket. Travis Head managed to face him. Shami also bowled a couple of wide balls. In my opinion, Siraj should have bowled 2-3 overs initially because he can swing the ball,” the former Pakistan captain was quoted as saying to Sportskeeda.
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‘The decision to give him the new ball in the World Cup final is unconventional thinking’: Akram
Akram also pointed out that Shami was mentally unprepared to take the new ball.
“In his usual role, Shami comes in as the first change, where the ball is more controllable due to its slightly older condition. The decision to give him the new ball in the World Cup final is unconventional thinking, and I support it. However, Siraj should have bowled 2-3 overs at the beginning. If nothing significant occurred, Shami could have been brought in as the first change,” the cricketing maestro added.
Akram’s observations shed light on the strategic intricacies that play a crucial role in high-stakes encounters such as a World Cup final.
Rohit Sharma, leading the Indian team in his third ICC event, faced immense pressure to register a win over Australia in the final. While Team India displayed commendable effort, ultimately falling short, Akram’s analysis adds a nuanced perspective to the post-mortem of the match, providing insights that will likely fuel discussions in the cricketing fraternity.
