India’s Big Decisions for WTC Final
With only 48 hours left until the Second World Test Championship Final, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid have yet to make three critical calls for India’s Playing XI. The most important of these is the decision between Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, or just one spinner. Additionally, the team must choose between Shardul Thakur and Umesh Yadav as the third seamer. Although the keeper’s spot seems clear, Rohit has not yet revealed whether Ishan Kishan or KS Bharat will take the field for India against Australia in the WTC Final 2023.
Ashwin-Jadeja or Jadeja Alone?
The two spinners have a proven track record when together, having taken 104 wickets in 25 Tests in the last cycle. However, India have broken from this pattern in England, South Africa, and New Zealand, opting instead to go with horses for courses. This has seen both spinners utilized in different matches.
Third Seamer: Shardul or Umesh?
Shardul Thakur has been a regular in the Indian team in the last two years, having played in 17 Tests. He has taken 30 wickets in this time, but his economy rate of 4.96 is not ideal. On the other hand, Umesh Yadav has only played in 10 Tests in the last two years, but his economy rate is much better at 3.72.
Keeper’s Choice
Ishan Kishan and KS Bharat are the two contenders for the keeper’s spot. Ishan Kishan has played in three Tests and scored a century, but KS Bharat has yet to make his Test debut.
Conclusion
With only two days to go until the WTC Final, Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid must make three key decisions for India’s Playing XI. These are the choices between Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, Shardul Thakur and Umesh Yadav as the third seamer, and Ishan Kishan and KS Bharat as the keeper. Only time will tell which players will take the field in the WTC Final.