Former Indian selector and 1983 World Cup winner Sandeep Patil wasn’t really surprised with the Indian cricket team management’s decision to include R Ashwin in the 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.
Ashwin was named in India’s 2023 ODI World Cup squad as Akshar Patel’s replacement after the spin all-rounder was ruled out of the mega event due to an injury that he sustained during the Asia Cup 2023.
Sandeep Patil was quoted as saying by The Telegraph Online: “Ashwin’s inclusion wasn’t a surprise at all. Not at all. He’s the best off-spinner in world cricket today and I’m happy to see he’s in. I also feel sorry for Axar, who got injured. But then, you know, it was a blessing in disguise (for India).”
He added, “We have a fine team, great balance and the team’s in good nick and form, which is so important. But to sustain that for a long period is difficult. I think by mid-tournament we’ll come to know where the teams actually stand.”
Patil feels it would be crucial how team management helps players handle the pressure of playing in the World Cup 2023 in front of the home crowd. He also stressed that every player must take responsibility to win the trophy after 12 years.
The 67-year-old explained, “It is up to Rahul (Dravid) and the team management as to how they handle the situation to ensure players deal with the pressure of playing at home. We only hope things go well and they bring back the World Cup.”
He signed off by saying, “If you look at 1983, we had good all-rounders and in every match, there were different heroes and performers. If you perform as a team in every game and play the role assigned to you and shoulder the responsibilities and contribute, that can certainly make things happen.”
