In Hardik Pandya’s absence, Harbhajan Singh wants India to play Suryakumar Yadav and Mohammed Shami in their World Cup 2023 match against New Zealand.
The top two teams will compete in Dharamsala on Sunday, October 22. Unfortunately, Hardik Pandya sustained a left ankle injury during the match against Bangladesh and has been ruled out for this game. His injury is currently being evaluated at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.
In a recent discussion on Star Sports, Harbhajan was asked about his opinion on who should replace Hardik Pandya in the Indian XI. He shared his thoughts by saying:
“Suryakumar Yadav for me. I feel he should be straightaway brought in. Play Mohammed Shami in place of Shardul (Thakur) because then you get five proper bowlers. You feel Hardik Pandya needs to bowl three-four overs because Shadul might not be able to bowl his full quota of overs.”
Harbhajan Singh
Shami, unlike Shardul Thakur, is expected to bowl his complete quota of overs, according to the former India spinner. He stated, “
“However, if Shami plays, he will bowl his 10 overs for sure. (Jasprit) Bumrah and (Mohammed) Siraj will also bowl their 10 overs, and both your spinners are bowling well in any case. So I feel these changes should happen.”
Harbhajan Singh
As Hardik Pandya’s replacement, the Men in Blue will have to pick between Suryakumar and Ishan Kishan. Although Kishan has recently put up good performances in the middle order, Rohit Sharma and company may opt for Suryakumar if they need a No. 6 batter.
Hardik Pandya’s absence affects Rohit’s plans, says Sanjay Bangar
According to Sanjay Bangar, Hardik Pandya’s absence will force Rohit Sharma to change his plans. He stated:
“When an all-rounder goes out, it is not possible for Rohit to play according to his plans, because he wants depth at No. 8. We don’t have any such all-rounders who have the ability to replace him.”
Sanjay Bangar
While noticing that Axar Patel is not in the squad, the former India all-rounder agreed with Harbhajan’s assessment on the team changes. He stated:
“Axar Patel is also sitting out. When (Ravindra) Jadeja got injured, the team had difficulties. Whenever Hardik is unavailable, the team has to play with only five bowlers. I totally agree with what Bhajji said. Suryakumar Yadav will finish well if he plays at No. 6.”
Sanjay Bangar
Sanjay Bangar stated that India does not require a batting option at No. 8 with the way their top order is performing. He believes Mohammed Shami is capable of wielding the willow at that position and joked that Rohit can bowl off-spin if necessary.