Three Former Indian Cricketers Who Could Have Seamlessly Integrated into the 2023 World Cup Scenario
Team India is currently facing a complex puzzle as they strategize their potential ODI World Cup squad, contending with a multitude of variables such as injuries, form fluctuations, and various other influencing factors. It’s evident that the present team carries certain deficiencies, and the uncertain preparation has posed challenges.
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Equally, other international teams are not devoid of challenges as they approach the World Cup, each grappling with their distinct set of issues. Yet, defending champions England received a significant boost with the decision of Ben Stokes to rescind his ODI retirement and reenter the format. This resurgence is set to commence during the upcoming home series against New Zealand.
While it’s true that Jos Buttler may not have Stokes’ bowling prowess at his disposal during the tournament, the accomplished all-rounder contributes immensely. His unflinching batting, adeptness at reading game situations, ability to shine under pressure, and exceptional leadership skills are just a few of his attributes that prompted the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) to pursue his return.
While the prospect of retired players making a comeback seems distant for India, it’s captivating to ponder over the past cricket legends who could perfectly enhance the present Indian squad, creating an ideal fusion for the 2023 World Cup.
1. MS Dhoni
Team India currently finds itself in a predicament concerning their wicketkeeping situation. The preferred choice, Rishabh Pant, has been sidelined due to a long-term injury. The next viable option, KL Rahul, is presently recuperating from an injury and has had limited playing time.
Although Ishan Kishan has showcased impressive batting performances, his suitability for the middle order is questionable. On the other hand, Sanju Samson has struggled to find form in recent matches.
Consequently, Team India would undoubtedly embrace the presence of MS Dhoni in his prime, with the World Cup-winning captain seamlessly slotting into the existing Indian lineup. His unparalleled ability to close out matches could alleviate multiple concerns with this singular alteration.
The Men in Blue could greatly benefit from Dhoni’s composed demeanor and extensive experience during these uncertain times. His assured command behind the stumps, coupled with his influence in the lower-middle order, is precisely what the team requires at this juncture.
2. Yuvraj Singh
Team India currently faces a pressing requirement for a left-handed batsman in the middle order, as well as a player in the top six who can contribute a few overs. Yuvraj Singh proficiently fulfilled this dual role for the team over several years, and since his retirement, India has encountered challenges in identifying a suitable successor for this role.
Tilak Varma emerges as the closest contender to fulfill this role in India’s lineup. Despite possessing undeniable talent, the young cricketer is yet to make his ODI debut. Introducing him directly into the World Cup setup would inevitably spark debate.
Furthermore, Yuvraj’s presence could resolve the persistent dilemma of the problematic No. 4 position, a conundrum that has plagued India’s batting order for an extended period. With a formidable top three, Yuvraj serving as a bridge, and a dynamic lower-middle order brimming with firepower, India could arguably possess the most robust batting ensemble with this hypothetical alteration.
3. Zaheer Khan
Left-arm pacers have become a scarcity within the realm of Indian cricket. Currently, India possesses two left-arm pacers, but regrettably, neither precisely meets the required criteria, particularly for a tournament of the magnitude of the World Cup.
Arshdeep Singh has been absent from the ODI setup for a considerable period and is currently grappling with a slump in form. On the flip side, Jaydev Unadkat has featured in only one ODI match in the past decade. Although the allure of including a left-arm seamer in the lineup is evident, India must relinquish this prospect due to the dearth of genuine choices.
This is precisely where the expertise of Zaheer Khan becomes invaluable. During his prime, this left-arm seamer stood as India’s premier pace bowler, showcasing exceptional prowess on home soil—the very setting for the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Zaheer’s proficiency spanned both the initial and final stages of an innings; he adeptly extracted swing from the ball and proved himself a reliable candidate for bowling at the death as well. The incorporation of Zaheer into the contemporary Indian bowling arsenal undoubtedly elevates its effectiveness and versatility.
