Cricket analyst and former India cricketer, Aakash Chopra, predicts that the dynamic fast-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur has a strong possibility of being selected for the upcoming 2023 ODI World Cup. With India hosting the prestigious event in October and November, all eyes are on the team selection.
Discussing his projections on his popular YouTube channel, Chopra earmarked Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Shardul Thakur as the potential pace quartet for the World Cup. Boasting a commendable record, Thakur has claimed 58 wickets in his 38 ODI appearances for the country.
Chopra emphasized, "That is what it seems like as of now. He has picked up a lot of wickets. Bumrah, Siraj, Shami and Shardul Thakur - I feel these four fast bowlers will be a part of India's 15 in the World Cup."
Highlighting Thakur's dual prowess, Chopra noted the all-rounder's batting contributions, with Thakur accumulating 315 runs from 38 matches, averaging 18.52 in ODIs. He remarked, Shardul gives you a little batting and he is also a wicket-taker. He might bowl full, short or wide, but whatever he bowls, he picks up wickets. We all bow down to Lord Thakur. There are extremely bright chances of Lord being in my team."
Commenting on India's strategy in the ongoing T20I series against the West Indies, where they are currently trailing 1-2 in a five-match series, Chopra observed, "It looks like it was on purpose. Nothing happens without purpose. I feel it's a case of oversight, that you didn't keep either Ravindra Jadeja or Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar was probably unavailable and you didn't think about Washington Sundar."
The anticipation builds as India is slated to commence their World Cup journey against Australia on October 8.
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