As the ODI World Cup draws near, Team India’s coach Rahul Dravid is brimming with cautious optimism. He expressed relief that core players like Jasprit Bumrah, KL Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer have not just recovered from injuries but have also managed to clock in substantial game time. These players, according to Dravid, form the backbone of the team, and their form and fitness could be pivotal to India’s chances in the tournament.
Ahead of the global cricketing extravaganza, the spotlight has been on Bumrah, who recently overcame a back issue. Making a mark, he played vital roles in the games against Australia and the series in Ireland and Sri Lanka. Meanwhile, Iyer, the young batting dynamo, showcased his mettle with commendable performances in Indore and Rajkot. Rahul, not just batted exquisitely with two half-centuries but also donned the wicketkeeper’s gloves, erasing doubts about his physical condition.
“Having these players get enough game-time is invaluable,” said Dravid after the third ODI against Australia, highlighting their crucial contributions. He was also pleased with Mohammed Siraj’s quick recovery from an ailment and praised Ashwin’s recent bowling spells. KL Rahul’s return after a long hiatus and Shreyas Iyer’s consecutive promising knocks have added momentum to the squad.
Amidst speculations about the final World Cup team, particularly the buzz around off-spinner R Ashwin’s place, Dravid maintained a neutral stance, subtly hinting that Axar Patel might retain his position in the squad.
Dravid also emphasized the importance of the upcoming warm-up match against England on September 30 in Guwahati. Due to some unforeseen challenges, including health issues, India had a restricted pool of 13 players in their game against Australia. Dravid hopes for the full squad’s presence in Guwahati, suggesting it’s crucial for final prep.
Reflecting on the recent match in Rajkot, the coach conceded that they gave away extra runs, making the chase more challenging. “A target around 320 would have been more feasible,” he opined. However, the partnership and form displayed by stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, post their short break, is a heartening sign for the team.
The high-stakes India-Pakistan encounter on October 14 is eagerly awaited by fans worldwide. The current World Cup squad, led by Rohit Sharma, with Hardik Pandya as his deputy, boasts of cricketing giants like Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and many others, setting the stage for a thrilling tournament.
