Asian Games 2023 | 3 Indian Players Who Might Flop in The Tournament


image-lk84r62sRuturaj Gaikwad will lead India [Twitter]

Recently, the BCCI named a formidable 20-member squad, including five standbys, for the upcoming Asian Games, set to take place in Hangzhou, China, in September-October. As the Asian Games will clash with the ODI World Cup, the board named a second-string Indian squad, to be led by promising Maharashtra batter Ruturaj Gaikwad. 

Indian batting unit looks rock-solid, studded with the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh and Jitesh Sharma, alongside skipper Gaikwad. Furthermore, the bowling unit seems robust on paper, comprising exceptional talents like Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi and Shivam Mavi. 

However, there are some players who could have an underwhelming campaign in the Asian Games for several reasons. As the tournament approaches, we provide you with three such players who might flop in the tournament. 


Ruturaj Gaikwad

Many of you could find it shocking to see the name of Ruturaj Gaikwad in this list. But despite showcasing his consistency for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL, the stylish batter hasn't lived up to his potential in international cricket. 

He has had a disappointing T20I career so far, managing only 135 runs, including a solitary fifty, at a mediocre average of 16.9. Also, considering he will be burdened by captaincy this time, it would be challenging for Gaikwad to perform up to his potential. 


Shivam Dube

image-lk84v7d9Shivam Dube in action [Twitter]

Since joining CSK in the IPL, Shivam Dube has nailed the enforcer's role in the middle-overs. He had a stellar IPL 2023, slamming 418 runs at an average of 38 and a blistering strike rate of 158.33. 

His outstanding performance in the IPL earned him a recall into the Indian side for the Asian Games. However, Dube has been extremely inconsistent in national colours and it won't be surprising if he ends up with modest stats in the Asian Games. 


Avesh Khan

A hit-the-deck bowler by nature, Avesh Khan was fast-tracked into the Indian team following his exploits in the domestic circuit. However, the right-arm pacer has blown hot and cold for India, scalping only 16 wickets in 20 white-ball appearances. He has been scrutinised for erratic line and length and could have a disappointing campaign in the Asian Games 2023.