In the run-up to the crucial Super 4 clash against Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup, legendary spinner Harbhajan Singh has pitched for the inclusion of seasoned pacer Mohammed Shami in the Indian line-up, over the relatively fresh Mohammed Siraj. The context being, Shami was overlooked for the Asia Cup opener against Pakistan but made a comeback against Nepal once Jasprit Bumrah took a brief leave for personal reasons.
With Bumrah scheduled to make a return for the pivotal game this Sunday, Harbhajan's strategy for the team leans towards an aggressive pace attack. He further emphasizes the need for the batsmen to step up and play their part.
Drawing upon his vast experience, Harbhajan voiced, "I believe Shami should play. You can't buy experience, and an experienced player like Shami sitting out, it doesn't sit right with me. Shami should play before Siraj." He further articulated a potential strategy, suggesting, "If you really want to play Siraj, don't expect batting from Shardul Thakur. You have batters till no.7, then have proper bowlers. Tell your batters to score runs, and even if we score 260, it's the bowlers' responsibility to defend the total." This perspective was shared by the veteran on his YouTube channel.
In the previous encounter against Pakistan, India had shown preference to Siraj over Shami, with Shardul Thakur making the cut as a bowling all-rounder. However, Harbhajan's vision for the team seems to emphasize more on a reinforced bowling line-up rather than splitting capabilities between bowling and batting.
Drawing attention to India's top-order batsmen, Harbhajan opined, "Many people say Shardul can bat and ball, I agree. But we can't go into a game half-heartedly. Can Siraj do what Shardul does? If he can do better, strengthen the bowling and tell your batters to score."
His concerns seem rooted in the recent performance where India's batting vulnerabilities were laid bare by Pakistan's formidable pace trio of Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah. It's clear that Harbhajan's strategy for the Indian team, moving into the anticipated match, is rooted in experience and the belief that specialized roles can deliver more impact than relying on multi-dimensional players. As the cricketing world gears up for the Super 4 clash, the team selection and strategies will surely be in the limelight.
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