IND vs PAK: The Indian cricket team entered the ICC World Cup 2023 with uncertainties surrounding their number eight spot. After Ravichandran Ashwin played the opening game in Chennai, and Shardul Thakur replaced him in the subsequent match in Hyderabad, the optimal bowling combination has raised new concerns, which could be challenging for the selectors to decide. Nonetheless, it appears that Shardul Thakur may hold an advantage over Ashwin for the number 8 position in the upcoming India vs Pakistan match scheduled for Saturday.
IND vs PAK: Shardul over Ashwin?
Traditionally, the pitch at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium is known for favoring batters. It also offers some assistance to fast bowlers. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), the leading wicket-takers at this venue are the pace duo of Mohit Sharma and Mohammed Shami.
Although statistics provide only a partial view of the overall picture, they certainly strengthen Shardul’s candidacy for selection. The fast bowler has been in excellent form at the Narendra Modi Stadium, and in T20Is held at this venue, he stands as the most successful bowler.
Another significant advantage Shardul holds over Ashwin in the context of the playing XI against Pakistan is his ability as a batter. Given the pitch will favor batters, the Indian team might seek to bolster their batting lineup, especially with the presence of two all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya.
While Ashwin is undoubtedly valuable with his batting capabilities, Shardul has demonstrated his worth in recent times. In comparison, his combination of fast bowling skills and batting prowess is likely to make him a preferred choice for the upcoming clash.
India’s Probable Playing XI against Pakistan: Rohit Sharma (c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav
