Team India has got a big boost before the warm-up game against Bangladesh as Kedar Jadhav, who was once in doubt to be part of the World Cup squad, seems to be fit and running for today’s match. He was among the players who took part in the practice session on the eve of the Bangladesh tie. There are high chances that Jadhav will be playing today’s match.
The Indian all-rounder had suffered a shoulder issue during the IPL match against Kings XI Punjab in the last stage of the league. It ruled him out of the playoffs. Jadhav was later examined by team India’s physio, who tracked his fitness.
At one stage, there were reports that he might not be fit for team India’s first match. But now, he has returned to training and looks a likely contender to be part of playing XI today. Jadhav had missed first practice match against New Zealand due to a shoulder issue.
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Apart from him, Vijay Shankar also seems to be fit. He had also missed the practice match due to a blow that he had taken after being hit by a bouncer on his forearm from Khaleel Ahmed. Shankar was cleared later and is fit for World Cup. Along with Jadhav, he might also get a chance in today’s match.
It is unlikely that Jadhav will be bowling today. He might just be tested as a batsman in today’s match. Also, it is a known fact that Jadhav only bowls in matches whenever required. He does not bowl during net sessions. In IPL as well, there was no bowling show from the all-rounder.
The availability of both the payers will give team India an opportunity to test out all the players in today’s match. All the batsmen are expected to bat today while bowlers might not be asked to bowl their 10 overs. Vijay Shankar could be given an extended run as a bowler today.
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Bangladesh, whose first practice match against Pakistan was washed out due to rain, will also be keen to make most out of the opportunity today. They haven’t played a match in England yet. Although, they took part in a tri-series against West Indies and Ireland in Ireland recently.
India and Bangladesh lock horns at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff today. The two teams will again also lock horns in the league stage of the tournament on July 2.