Aakash Chopra picks Indian squad for ODI series in New Zealand
Aakash Chopra on the return of Captain Shubman Gill and the top order
In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra outlined a team that prioritizes continuity and established roles over experimental changes. He was definitive about returning Shubman Gill to the captaincy and the structure of the top three, which leaves no room for the creator of the recent century Yashasvi Jaiswal in the starting XI.
“Gill is fit and available, and he will come back as captain. There will be no questions there. Rohit Sharma will open with him, which means Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a century, but he will have to wait. At number 3 is Player of the Series Virat Kohli, who looks like a man on a mission.” said Chopra.
Middle order solutions and the KL Rahul factor
Chopra also addressed the gap in the middle order left by Shreyas Iyer, who is expected to miss the series. He elaborated on the likely replacements, emphasizing the need for consistency and rewarding those who have been part of the system.
“The update on Shreyas Iyer is that he will not be available for this series. So don’t be surprised if his name is not there, and if his name is not there, Ruturaj will continue at number 4. At number 5, I have KL Rahul as wicketkeeper, as batsman and perhaps as vice-captain in the side.” the former Indian cricketer added.
Washington Sundar’s role and selection logic
A significant part of Chopra’s analysis focused on maintaining depth in both the bowling and batting departments. He emphasized that players like Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma, despite the recent rotations, provide the necessary balance in the squad’s structure.
“After that, there is a place for Washington Sundar in my team. Although Washi did not play the last match and Tilak Varma played in his place, I will keep both Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma as continuity is important.” said the ex-India opener.
The all-round debate and the recall of Mohammed Siraj
Chopra’s considerations for the squad focused on a shift in the spin hierarchy and the demand for the return of the veteran pace. He noted that recent performances have given Axar Patel an edge over veteran Ravindra Jadeja in the race for long-term ODI spots.
“Then the call will be made as to who should be placed between Axar and Jaddu… Jaddu’s performance in the last series was something ‘fifty-fifty’. So I think from a long-term perspective Axar Patel is ahead of him in the race. One between the two, not both. After that I say bring Siraj back. It’s enough now.” the cricketer-turned-commentator explained.
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The rise of Harshit Rana and the seam department
Chopra highlighted the emergence of Harshit Rana as a primary pace option, noting his match-winning contributions on recent tours. He believes Rana has earned his place through consistent performances, especially in high-pressure situations against South Africa.
“After that, I kept Harshit Rana. He won a game for you. He did well in Sydney and his performance against South Africa was also good. Then I say bring Siraj back… So Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh. This is the story close to my XI.” the New Delhi-born cricketer emphasized.
Spin Depth: The Kuldeep Yadav Contingency
Discussing the bowling variety, Chopra mentioned Kuldeep Yadav as the X-factor who can adapt to the conditions on the field. He noted that Kuldeep remains the primary option if the surface provides some turning assistance or if dew is not an expected factor.
“Kuldeep Yadav can come in there when there is no dew. You can drop a fast bowler and play Kuldeep Yadav. So at number 12 I have Kuldeep Yadav. Then I will keep Prasidh Krishna in the team. I need an extra fast bowler.” Chopra discussed.
The Rishabh Pant inclusion and bench strength
Finally, Chopra addressed the backup wicketkeeping slot and defended his choice of Rishabh Pant over other contenders. He argued that Pant’s pedigree justifies his spot even amid a “row” over other potential candidates like Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel.
“At number 14, I will keep Rishabh Pant, although there was a row about why Rishabh Pant should be kept, that Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel can be kept. You can keep anyone, but also tell what is Rishabh Pant’s mistake. I am not picking Varun Chakaravarthy. I am getting Yashasvi Jaiswal, in case you need him.” Chopra concluded.
Aakash Chopra’s Indian squad for the NZ ODI series: Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Axar Patel/Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Tilak Varma, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Also READ: Reason why Shreyas Iyer will miss the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand
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