Following paceman Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s injury, the balance of Team India has somewhat faced a major jolt with premium opener Shikhar Dhawan being already ruled out of the ICC World Cup 2019 due to a broken thumb on Wednesday (June 19).
Thus, a couple of changes are on the cards for their fifth match against Afghanistan. Southampton will host the game on June 22 (Saturday). Consequently, it will help India to strike a balance in the playing XI.
Earlier, against Pakistan KL Rahul has joined Rohit Sharma to open the innings after Dhawan was sidelined for at least three weeks.
Recently, India annihilated Pakistan by 89 runs on Duckworth Lewis (DLS) method to earn seven points in four matches. The magnificent knock from Rohit has made a difference with Men in Blue bagging their seventh World Cup win against Pakistan.
Virat Kohli-led side is sitting third on the World Cup standings following a terrific start against South Africa on June 5 at The Oval.
However, it is unfortunate to witness the team had faced a severe jolt when Bhuvneshwar walked off the ground on June 16. The seam and swing sensation was bowling his third over when he pulled a hamstring. It further ruled him out for at least three crucial fixtures.
Here’re the two players who are highly-likely going to make it to India’s playing XI:
Bhuvneshwar Kumar’s obvious replacement is Mohammed Shami –
The Team India is ready for a like-for-like replacement with paceman Mohammed Shami. Shami has been in prolific form with the ball in hand. And his fitness has proved to be a boon for India, particularly in the last season.
Going by Shami’s current form, he has proved to be an asset in the middle overs.
Also Read : ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 (Match 28): Afghanistan vs India – Stats Preview
The wicket-taking option has an experience of making the new ball talk. Notably, at death, Shami has not only stemmed the run flow, but he benefitted his team with odd-wickets.
He has bagged 17 scalps at the World Cups which is second highest after Umesh Yadav, who has 18 wickets to his name.
Ravindra Jadeja to make in place of Kedar Jadhav?
With Bhuvneshwar’s absence seen as a headache for lower-order batting line-up, India is expected to opt for Ravindra Jadeja in place of Kedar Jadhav, whose unusual action has earned him recognition apart from his batting skills.
Jadeja has been brilliant on the field apart from a cunning customer with the white-ball. While knowing a situation quite well, Jadeja is capable of changing the complexion of the game. More often than not, he has proven quite useful with the willow.
Besides, Shami capable of whacking the ball at the fag end of innings. Jadeja’s inclusion will add firepower to get those extra runs. With Jadhav yet to get enough time to bat, Jadeja could be a vital cog in the wheel for India when it comes to chasing the target.
The three-dimensional cricket Jadeja has a wealth of experience on his back to roll over his golden arm further. It might not be an ideal choice to go with Jadeja, but the situation demands as the tourney progresses.
The inclusion of Jadeja will serve as a purpose to allow the top-order batsman to play freely. Meanwhile, freedom means India could go all-out against their opponents.
In World Cups, Jadeja has nine wickets in eight matches.