Former Indian cricket team spinner, Harbhajan Singh, has voiced his strong support for including Ravichandran Ashwin in India’s playing XI for the upcoming Cricket World Cup 2023. Ashwin’s inclusion in the World Cup squad has sparked varied reactions among fans and experts, particularly after his notable comeback in the ODI series against Australia, where he claimed four wickets in two matches. Ashwin joined the squad as a replacement for the injured Axar Patel, who sustained an injury during the Asia Cup 2023.
In an interview with ESPNCricinfo, Harbhajan Singh emphasized the significance of skill in cricket and suggested that Ashwin is currently one of the top bowling choices for the Indian team. He expressed his belief that the team management should seriously consider including Ashwin in the playing XI for the World Cup.
“People are realizing that skill is more important. It’s not like an off-spinner shouldn’t bowl to right-handers. Even I mentioned that Ashwin should play if the opposition has more left-handers, but that is what the management thinks. But if I was captain of the team or part of management, I would pick my five best bowlers, and Ashwin would be first or second on that list,” said Harbhajan Singh.
Ashwin’s selection became a topic of discussion when India had to choose between him and Washington Sundar following Axar Patel’s injury. Ultimately, the selectors opted for the experienced off-spinner, a decision that Harbhajan Singh fully supports.
In addition to endorsing Ashwin’s inclusion, Harbhajan Singh also praised Suryakumar Yadav, an explosive batter, and asserted that Yadav should feature in every match of the Cricket World Cup due to his match-winning capabilities. According to Harbhajan, Yadav has the potential to single-handedly tilt the game in India’s favor and should be placed at No. 5 in the batting order.
“Suryakumar Yadav has to play all the matches. I don’t care whom he replaces, but his name should be taken first and then the rest. You have a player who is a pure match-winner and can single-handedly make the game one-sided. He is the ace of spades. We have been talking about a finisher…he is the one. He has to play at No. 5 for India,” emphasized Harbhajan Singh on his official YouTube channel.
With Harbhajan Singh’s insights and recommendations, India’s strategy for the Cricket World Cup 2023 remains a topic of anticipation and discussion among cricket enthusiasts. As the tournament approaches, cricket fans eagerly await the official team selection and the thrilling matches that lie ahead.