Kartik emphasized that all-rounder Axar Patel should return to the squad and predicted that he will play a crucial role in the crucial match. Notably, Axar was rested for India’s final group stage match against the Dutch national cricket team.
Reflecting on India’s team combination, Kartik stated that the strategy of playing with eight batters to ensure batting depth has worked well in the tournament so far. However, he expressed concern over Abhishek Sharma’s recent form and said the Men in Blue would be hoping for a strong performance from him in the upcoming match. Kartik further added that Abhishek’s match against South Africa’s leading pacer Kagiso Rabada could play a decisive role.
“Axar Patel is coming back. He is absolutely central to India’s plans. I think the formula of going with eight batters has worked. The only thing for them is that they are at the top of the order. Kagiso has not shot the way they would have liked. They will hope that the Kagiso-Abhishek battle goes in Abhishek’s favor,” Kartik said on Cricbuzz.
Abhishek has had a difficult start to the tournament. He failed to open his account and register three consecutive ducks in as many matches. His poor form has become a concern for the team heading into the Super Eight stage. Talking about the situation, Kartik refrained from giving any technical advice but stated that India would simply hope that Abhishek would rediscover his form at this crucial juncture of the competition.
“They would want these guys to come roaring back into form. Abhishek is yet to open his account and there is a certain pattern to his dismissals too. It will be interesting how he looks at it. Enough people have their own opinions on how he should go about it,” said Kartik.
Kartik also addressed the form of Tilak Varma, who has struggled to produce his best performances in the tournament so far. Despite the inconsistency, Kartik expressed confidence in the young batsman and stated that it was only a matter of time before he found his rhythm. He added that if Tilak gets going, India could really have fun with the bat in Ahmedabad. In four matches, Tilak scored 106 runs at an average of 26.50 and a strike rate of 120.45.
“As for Tilak Varma, Surya wants him at the age of three and he has had a good run there. It might be a matter of time and a matter of time. If he also starts training, they might enjoy Ahmedabad tomorrow. It’s to his liking,” Kartik said.
Get every cricket update! Follow us:
#T20 #World #Cup #Axar #Patel #heart #Indias #planning #Murali #Kartik #strong #statement #Indias #squad #Super #clash