'Bring Ramandeep Singh, He Will...:' Aakash Chopra Advices SKY Before IND vs SA 3rd T20I
Aakash Chopra gives advice to SKY [Source: @CricCrazyJohns/x.com]
Aakash Chopra wants to see Ramandeep Singh in India’s playing XI for the third T20I against South Africa. Chopra feels India could use a bit more batting depth, especially with the current setup of four specialist bowlers.
The T20I series is tied at 1-1, with India winning the first game by 61 runs and South Africa taking the second by three wickets. The next match will be played in Centurion on Wednesday, November 13. Chopra thinks a small change in the lineup might give India the edge they need.
Why Chopra Thinks Ramandeep Should Play?
In a video on his YouTube channel, Chopra explained why Ramandeep should make his debut. He noted that India’s lower-order batting has struggled.
He pointed to South Africa’s Gerald Coetzee, who came in at No. 9 and was still able to bat, giving them an edge. Chopra thinks Ramandeep Singh could fill that role for India.
"I feel India should get Ramandeep Singh to make his debut. I tell you why. Fewer runs are being scored because no one is left in the end. Tail has absolutely no role to play. You don't have that much depth. You cannot have four No. 11 batters in T20 cricket. You have to have somebody who bats decently at No. 8. So I feel Ramandeep Singh should be played," said Chopra.
Who Could Sit Out for Ramandeep?
Chopra suggested that Ravi Bishnoi might be the one to sit out to make room for Ramandeep. Although Bishnoi has been performing exceptionally well, Chopra reckoned that India’s batting needs more depth for their current strategy to work.
Concerns About Axar Patel’s Role
Chopra also raised questions about how Axar Patel is being used by Surya. He feels that Axar hasn’t been given enough chances with the ball in the first two games. With South Africa’s lineup having many right-handers, Axar’s spin could be very effective.
“If you’re playing three spinners and you know the opposition struggles with spin, then why not use Axar more?” Chopra asked. He believes adding Ramandeep might encourage Suryakumar Yadav to use Axar more in the game.
Chopra sees Axar Patel as a key player, especially with his success in the T20 World Cup. Against a right-hand-heavy South African side, Axar could make a big difference if he’s given more overs.
With the series all square, India and South Africa will be eager to take the lead. Chopra’s suggestions could bring fresh ideas to India’s game plan and help them secure a win in the upcoming match.