Shastri’s insights, supported by former chief of selectors Sandeep Patil, have ignited discussions on the composition of the Indian cricket squad as these prominent tournaments approach.
On Star Sports’ ‘Selection Day’ show, Shastri and Patil engaged in a comprehensive dialogue about the selection strategy that could shape India’s performance in the forthcoming tournaments. Both seasoned cricket personalities emphasised the importance of all-rounders and the pivotal role of pacers within the team.
Shastri specifically recommended the inclusion of Axar Patel and Shardul Thakur, in addition to the established all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya, as integral components of the team. This strategy, he believes, would enhance the team’s overall balance and capabilities on the field.
Furthermore, Shastri proposed a contingency plan by suggesting that talented batsman Sanju Samson be kept on standby. Samson could seamlessly integrate into the team in case of an injury to a key player, providing a dynamic solution to unforeseen challenges that may arise during the tournaments.
“I think to be fair, I will go with both the all-rounders – Axar and Shardul, it gives me an opportunity. And keep Sanju Samson on standby in case something happens to the keeper there, where he can just fly out,” Ravi Shastri said while speaking to Star Sports on the ‘Selection Day’ show.
The former India head coach said that he would go with two more all-rounders other than Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja.
“So, now you start with the pacers because, for me, the pacers are important. If you need four over there, you already have one all-rounder (Pandya). So, if Bumrah is fit, he walks in. Shami walks in – that’s two. You’ve got Siraj as a backup, and if needed, Shardul can be there. Shardul has done well in the West Indies one-day game; he can be a backup. And then you have room for one more,” he added.
Sandeep Patil was in agreement with Shastri. “I will go with what Ravi said because I want to remember 1983. The combination we had, we had many all-rounders in the team, and having all-rounders in the team gives you so much variety, and you can choose anybody.”
(With inputs from ANI)