Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector, has hinted at a potential correlation between the ODI World Cup 2023 squad and the players chosen for the Asia Cup on Monday, August 21. The Indian cricket team recently unveiled a roster of 17 players for the forthcoming Asia Cup, with Sanju Samson designated as the backup.
Agarkar emphasized that the nucleus of the ODI World Cup 2023 squad is likely to revolve around the players designated for the Asia Cup. Among the lineup for the imminent tournament, key figures making a return include KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, and Jasprit Bumrah. Tilak Varma, who showcased an impressive performance in the West Indies, secured his position in the Asia Cup squad. Additionally, Suryakumar Yadav received another opportunity under the guidance of the team management.
Notably absent from the Asia Cup lineup was Yuzvendra Chahal, as Kuldeep Yadav remained the sole wrist spinner in the ensemble. Hardik Pandya retained his role as vice-captain, bolstering the team’s dynamics. The pace contingent, aimed at supporting Jasprit Bumrah, features Mohammed Shami, Prasidh Krishna, and Mohammed Siraj.
During a press conference, Agarkar conveyed that the World Cup squad is anticipated to closely resemble the assembly of 18 players chosen for the Asia Cup. He expressed optimism regarding the performances of Iyer and Rahul, both of whom are returning from injuries. Agarkar elaborated that the forthcoming Asia Cup matches would serve as a platform to assess the players’ form and condition.
Agarkar elucidated, “The approach is quite straightforward. The 18 individuals we’ve selected will form the core, with potential adjustments. Several significant players are recuperating from injuries. We are hopeful that their progress will be promising. With their involvement in the Asia Cup, they have opportunities to showcase their abilities. This period is crucial for evaluating them. While we do have some time before the deadline— the fifth of its kind—our intention is to convene a brief training camp and engage in a few matches before formally unveiling the squad. Hence, the nucleus will undeniably comprise the players from this pool.”
The chief selector emphasized the deliberate yet comprehensive approach being undertaken to assemble the optimal squad for the ODI World Cup. The Asia Cup serves as a pivotal arena for players to demonstrate their prowess and fitness. As the cricketing world anticipates the forthcoming events, Agarkar’s statement provides insight into the strategic planning behind the selection process, aiming to craft a formidable team capable of clinching the prestigious ODI World Cup title.
The lineup for the Asia Cup 2023 representing India consists of the following players:
Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Rohit Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna.
