Former India head coach Ravi Shastri is back behind the microphone and during the recent India-New Zealand T20I in Ahmedabad shared his thoughts on India’s World Cup squad and the chances of a few pacers making it into the final 15.
India will be hosting the ICC ODI World Cup solo for the first time in October-November and everyone is speculating about which of the fast bowlers will BCCI selectors have in their plans for the mega ICC event.
One of the pacers in contention is J&K’s Umran Malik who has made everyone sit up and notice thanks to his ability to bowl at tearaway pace and send down 150 kph plus thunderbolts. The 25-year-old tearaway quick has picked up 15 wickets in the last 8 matches, including 2 three-wicket-hauls, and gone wicketless only once.
The Indian fast bowling lineup already has Mohammad Shami and Mohammed Siraj with the expectance of a fit Jasprit Bumrah returning to the fold. Add a fit Hardik Pandya into the mix and India has a potent pace unit with space for maybe one or two pacers more.
Ravi Shastri shared his opinions on Umran Malik’s chances in India’s World Cup squad.
He said on commentary on Star Sports: “I think he plays an opportunity more in 50-over cricket than in T20s. And with the amount of cricket that is being played, he will always be in the mix because there could be injuries cropping up and any time. There is a deadline to announce your side for the World Cup. The fitness of players will be the key. That's why this IPL will be crucial to see how they (bowlers) take the load.”
Shastri made the equation sound tougher explaining the impact of a returning Bumrah. He said that a fit Bumrah becomes an automatic entry into the Indian XI and it will be tough for the opposition to beat India at home given their intimidating record.
"You would want Bumrah back, really because he is magical. He is a star. Him back in the side fully-fit will really lift this Indian team. And Hardik is such a key component. Him bowling for India makes this team a different side. India have got a great record at home. The boys are fit - Bumrah - it can make a big difference. You've got variety in Arshdeep as well, Kuldeep and Chahal have bowled well. Washington Sundar is threatening all the time so it's a good bunch," added Shastri.
