Former Indian pacer Ajit Agarkar has suggested the Indian team management to bring back middle-order batter Suryakumar Yadav against the clash against Afghanistan on Wednesday, provided that he is fit enough to play the game.
Surya had missed out on India’s Super 12 game against New Zealand due to back spasms. Moreover, Agarkar believes India’s vice-captain Rohit Sharma should be back to open the innings.
"Suryakumar Yadav if he is fit, comes in for me Rohit goes to open the innings. Pandya's form is certainly a concern, but if you've backed him for 2 games, then you don't want to tinker too much. He also bowled a couple of overs in the last game, so that helps," Agarkar said on ESPN Cricinfo.
Furthermore, the speedster advised India to change their mindset going into the contest against Afghanistan, and should play their star spinner Rashid Khan in a cautious manner.
"India would just look to bat better, change in venue, I don't know about that but a change of mindset definitely would," the 43-year-old asserted.
"You have to look at the situation. Very few batsmen successfully manage to attack Rashid Khan. If you are getting enough runs against the rest of the bowling attack, no need to take unnecessary risks against Rashid," Agarkar added.
The Men in Blue are on the verge of bowing out of the tournament after two horrendous losses against Pakistan and New Zealand in Super 12 stage. However, if they manage to bring their A-game and win with a hefty margin against Afghanistan tonight, they will still keep their semi-final hopes alive.
On the other hand, a win against India will strengthen Afghanistan’s semi-final chances as they already have four points in three games so far.
Following India’s game, Afghanistan are scheduled to play New Zealand on November 7.
