After the announcement of India’s squad for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023, opener Shikhar Dhawan has shared his first reaction. Dhawan, who hasn’t played an ODI for India since December 2022, did not make the cut for the World Cup. Many experts believed that Dhawan’s experience and left-handed batting style would have been beneficial for India, especially against teams with dangerous left-arm pacers.
Dhawan, known for his impressive performances in ICC tournaments, including the Champions Trophy and the 2019 World Cup, expressed his support for his former teammates on social media. He congratulated them and extended his best wishes, hoping that they would bring the cup back home and make India proud. Despite being snubbed, Dhawan’s gracious message garnered praise from fans.
One reason for Dhawan’s omission from the squad could be the emergence of young talents Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill, both of whom have scored double centuries in the past year while opening the innings. Additionally, at 37 years old, Dhawan’s age may have been a factor in the selection process. Captain Rohit Sharma is expected to open the innings with Gill in the World Cup.
Other exclusions from the squad include Prasidh Krishna, Yuzvendra Chahal, and R Ashwin. Kuldeep Yadav was chosen as the wrist spinner instead of Chahal, while Mohammed Siraj was preferred over Krishna. In terms of spin options, Rohit and coach Rahul Dravid decided to go with Axar Patel, a left-arm orthodox bowler, which could prove to be advantageous for the team.
Despite missing out on the World Cup, Dhawan’s focus remains on supporting his teammates and hoping for their success in the tournament.
Sources:
– ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023 Squad Announcement
– Shikhar Dhawan’s social media post
