Former India cricketer VVS Laxman believes Team India should go with Shardul Thakur against New Zealand in place of pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Bhuvneshwar hasn't been at his best lately and his form is a concern for the team management.

Shardul, on the other hand, is coming from a successful Indian Premier League 2021 season and he has also proved his worth in Indian colors. Laxman, on Star Sports show Game Plan, said Shardul can contribute with the bat as well.

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“I would go for Shardul Thakur because Shardul can give runs with the bat, and he’s a wicket-taking option. It also increases the depth in the batting lineup. So, I would definitely go with Shardul ahead of Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

“He is an experienced bowler, but if you think about the balance and the combination of the playing eleven, I would probably prefer Shardul over Bhuvi,” he said ahead of India's clash with New Zealand on Sunday (October 31).

India are coming off a defeat against Pakistan in their first match of the T20 World Cup 2021. With Pakistan beating, both India and New Zealand, the contest between the Virat Kohli-led side and the Kiwis has become very important for both teams.