As the IPL 2023 come to the verge of an end, Indian cricket fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at The Oval, which will be played from June 7 to 11.
In the prestigious cup final, BCCI should consider one area that requires careful consideration from the management is the wicket-keeping position. With KL Rahul ruled out due to injury, the choice lies between KS Bharat and Ishan Kishan, with opinions divided among experts. Dinesh Karthik recently voiced his recommendation for KS Bharat, emphasizing the significance of experience on such a grand stage.
KS Bharat, who has already travelled to London for preparations, has emerged as a strong contender for the wicket-keeping role in the WTC final. Dinesh Karthik believes that Bharat would be the straightforward choice, given the pressure and magnitude of the occasion. Karthik suggests that asking Kishan to make his Test debut in the prestigious final might be a considerable burden for the young player.
Speaking to the ICC review, Dinesh Karthik expressed his preference for KS Bharat over Ishan Kishan. Karthik acknowledged Bharat’s superior keeping skills and experience as factors that could give him an edge in the selection process. Considering the demands and challenges of the WTC final, Karthik suggested that Bharat’s proficiency behind the stumps makes him a suitable choice.
In conversation with the ICC review, Karthik stated, “KS Bharat will be a straightforward choice as playing Kishan in his debut in the WTC final is too much to ask. Because KS has the edge over Ishan, I think they will go with Bharat for the finals.”
As the Indian team management weighs its options, the decision regarding the wicket-keeping position for the WTC final remains crucial. While Karthik leans towards Bharat, the final call will depend on various factors the management considers, including the players’ recent form, skills, and adaptability to the Test format.