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'Cannot Go In With Just Six Batters...' Gambhir's Advice To Team India For World Cup 

image-lmq09hfqThe winning celebration by Team India [Twitter]

Team India, fresh off their triumphant campaign in the Asia Cup, is gearing up for the much-anticipated ICC World Cup 2023, which will be held on home soil. Despite their recent success, there are lingering concerns that need to be addressed before the marquee event begins next month. Former India opener Gautam Gambhir has voiced one such concern, emphasizing the need for Ravindra Jadeja to contribute more with the bat.

The Asia Cup, a dress rehearsal of sorts for the World Cup, saw India dominate the competition, crowned champions after a commanding 10-wicket victory over co-hosts Sri Lanka in the final. A resounding 228-run win against arch-rivals Pakistan in the Super Four stage further underscored their dominance in subcontinent conditions.

However, as India looks forward to the World Cup, a few issues have emerged. One of the most notable concerns is Ravindra Jadeja's batting performance in crucial situations. Gautam Gambhir has stressed the importance of Jadeja stepping up with the bat, especially given the demand for depth in the batting order.

Here's what former cricketer said 

"We know he (Jadeja) can bowl 10 overs on any given day on any surface. He is an amazing fielder, but he will have to contribute better as a batter at No. 7 because you cannot go in with just six batters," 

Gambhir's remarks highlight a crucial point: the balance between India's batting and bowling units. The veteran also expressed reservations about the batting position of Ishan Kishan.

“If Ishan Kishan plays at No. 5, there are question marks there as well. So Ravindra Jadeja will have to win matches with batting because you might have a situation where you need 80 or 90 runs in 10 overs and the No. 6 and No. 7 batters might be playing together," Gambhir said on Star Sports.

Team India's immediate focus is on the three-match ODI series against Australia, starting on September 22, 2023.

In an interesting development, spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been included in the squad for the India-Australia ODI series. However, fans will miss seeing Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in action during the first two ODIs, as they are set to sit out. KL Rahul will take the reins of the Team India squad in their absence.