The upcoming Cricket World Cup 2023 has ignited debates and discussions across the cricketing world. One of the most intriguing talking points is the inclusion of Ravichandran Ashwin in the Indian squad. Former Indian cricket team spinner Harbhajan Singh has voiced his opinion, asserting that Ashwin deserves a place in the team and could be a key asset.
Harbhajan Singh, a veteran spinner himself, emphasized the importance of skill over traditional match-up strategies. He believes that the decision to play Ashwin should not be solely based on the opposition’s left-handers but rather on his exceptional bowling skills.
Harbhajan stated that if he were part of the team management, Ashwin would be among the top choices. Ashwin’s ability to outfox batters with his variations and crafty spin makes him a valuable asset in any format of the game.
“People are realising 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,” Harbhajan said on ESPNCricinfo.
The inclusion of Ashwin in the World Cup squad came as a result of an unfortunate injury to Axar Patel during the Asia Cup 2023. Patel’s absence created a void in the team’s spin department, prompting the selectors to choose between Ashwin and Washington Sundar.
The selectors opted for experience, selecting Ashwin as the replacement. Harbhajan Singh strongly supports this decision, asserting that Ashwin’s track record and proven abilities make him the right choice.
Harbhajan Singh didn’t limit his insights to just the bowling department; he also emphasized the significance of Suryakumar Yadav in India’s World Cup campaign. He believes that Yadav is a “pure match-winner” who can tilt the game in India’s favor single-handedly.
Yadav’s explosive batting style and ability to finish games make him a crucial asset. Harbhajan suggests that Yadav should occupy the No. 5 spot in the batting order, a position that could maximize his impact on the team’s fortunes.
“Surykaumar 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 have been taking about a finisher…he is the one. He has to play at No. 5 for India,” Harbhajan said on his official YouTube channel.
