‘Chance to test bench strength’
Kochi, Oct. 16: As the World Cup draws ever closer, the Indian team management must be conscious of the fact they are not anywhere near finding their ideal combination. Be it injury, lack of form or the resting of key players at important moments, the lead-up is strikingly similar to that of 2007.
The results in the Caribbean mirrored the preparations and planning. Fortunately for India there is an additional series against New Zealand that follows where the seniors can come back to find match-fitness.
Skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni insisted on playing it safe before a major tournament. “Most of the players have a niggle. We have to be safe at this time as we have all been playing a fair amount of cricket over the last year.
“It is better to rest players before the niggles turn into injuries. Resting senior players also gives you an opportunity to test your bench strength,” he added.
Contrary to Dhoni’s view, the likes of Saurabh Tiwary and R. Ashwin have not been fielded yet, though the two tournaments in Sri Lanka were an ideal platform for them. One trick too many has been missed and for the World Cup campaign to go off well, the seniors will have to be fit and in the form of their lives. Even as Dhoni agreed that a few spots were up for grabs, unanswered question remain.
“A fast bowling slot is there for sure. One or two places in the team depending on injuries will also be available. One batting slot since we really do not have a world class all-rounder. Either it will be an all-rounder or a big hitting batsman who can fit down the order.
“Apart from that, the top eight or nine players are almost sure to make the team but after them there are quite a few places vacant,” explained Dhoni.
Post new comment