Batsman Sunil Gavaskar has suggested some changes in India’s playing XI for the crucial encounter against New Zealand on Sunday. Virat Kohli and Company started their t20 world cup Campaign on a low note after beating Pakistan by 10 wickets. The Indian cricket team was beaten by their arch rivals, as a result, they now have to win every match in the Super 12 stage to strengthen their case to qualify for the semi-finals.
Gavaskar, who is very vocal about his opinion, advised India to pick Ishan Kishan over Hardik Pandya if the all-rounder is not fit to bowl. The veteran batsman also suggested the inclusion of Shardul Thakur in place of veteran campaigner Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
“If Hardik Pandya isn’t bowling – he remained in the match against Pakistan due to a shoulder injury – Ishan Kishan is in terrific form so I would definitely consider him ahead of Pandya. And maybe, you can replace Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Can think of Shardul Thakur. But otherwise, if you change too much, you will show the opposition that you are nervous,” Gavaskar said on Sports Tak.
However, Gavaskar further said that Team India does not need to panic after the loss to Pakistan and make many changes in the team.
“Having said that. If you make changes, it will show that the team is nervous. No need to panic, because they have a good team. Yes, you lost a match to a good team, but its It doesn’t mean that going forward, India won’t win the match or won’t win the tournament. If you win the next four matches, you can go to the semi-finals and from there, possibly to the final as well. So, no need to make changes. No,” said Gavaskar.
Meanwhile, Hardik switched his hands and started bowling in the nets session on Wednesday. His participation in the practice session also shut down all the rumors of his unavailability for the New Zealand match, as he suffered a shoulder injury while batting during the Pakistan clash.
Virat Kohli & Co will face New Zealand on October 31 as they look to improve upon their previous track record against them in ICC events. In previous high-profile meetings in ICC tournaments – the 2019 World Cup Semi-Final and the 2021 World Test Championship Final, New Zealand emerged victorious over India.
get all IPL news and cricket score Here
.