In the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, former Indian opener Gautam Gambhir has voiced his opinion on the selection of the Indian team. He strongly believes that pacer Mohammed Shami should have been an integral part of India's playing XI right from the beginning of the tournament. Shami's recent performance, where he clinched a 5-wicket haul, leading India to a four-wicket triumph over New Zealand at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala, only solidified Gambhir's viewpoint.
During a discussion on Star Sports, Gambhir was quoted saying, "Shami has a different class. The Indian team management need to have a lot of might to keep him out. No doubt India have won four consecutive matches but despite that, Mohammed Shami should have been a part of this playing XI from the start."
Mohammed Shami's recent achievement has made him the first Indian bowler to secure multiple 5-wicket hauls in ODI World Cups, a testament to his skill and consistency. Gambhir further deliberated on the challenges the team management might face in the upcoming World Cup matches, especially considering Shami's commendable figures of 5 for 54 in 10 overs against the Kiwis.
He added, "India went with five bowlers on a Dharamsala ground, which is quite difficult for the bowlers, and despite that, if you give your team five wickets, you can understand the level of bowler he is. It needs to be seen how the team management will make him sit out going forward. Will you persist with him once Hardik Pandya comes back?"
Shami's exceptional bowling performance was instrumental in restricting New Zealand to a total of 273 runs. This not only showcased his prowess but also reinstated the team management's faith in selecting him for such a pivotal World Cup 2023 match in Dharamsala.
In the batting department, Virat Kohli led the charge with a stellar 95, while captain Rohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja contributed significant scores of 46 and 39, respectively. Their combined efforts ensured India's fifth consecutive victory in the 2023 World Cup.
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