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‘I’m Used to It..’, Yuzvendra Chahal Opens Up On World Cup Squad Exclusion

image-ln6zzv7vChahal has been ignored once again for a mega event. (X.com)

Following his exclusion from the 2023 World Cup squad, India's premier leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal expressed his disappointment, noting that he has become accustomed to such situations.

Chahal, who last participated in a World Cup match in 2019, faced his third consecutive omission from World Cup selections. 

He previously missed out on the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE and didn't feature in any matches during the 2022 edition, despite being part of the squad. While Chahal boasts a stellar record as one of India's most successful white-ball bowlers, he found himself behind spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel in the selection. Furthermore, when Axar was injured, India opted for Ravinchandran Ashwin as a replacement, sidelining Chahal once more.

In a conversation with Wisden, Chahal acknowledged the recurring nature of being dropped and humorously mentioned that he's now used to it. 

"I understand that only fifteen players can be a part of the squad because it's a World Cup, where you can't take 17 or 18. I do feel a little disheartened, but my life motto is to move on. I'm used to it now... it's been three World Cups (laughs),"  Yuzvendra Chahal told Wisden.

Taking initiative to remain active, Chahal ventured to Kent, England, to play County Cricket. The wily leg-spinner explained his decision to play County Cricket in England to stay active. He also expressed his eagerness to represent India in Test cricket, embracing the opportunity with the red ball. 

"That's why I came here [to Kent] to play because I want to be on the cricket field somehow, somewhere. I'm getting an opportunity here with the red ball, and I'm genuinely eager to represent India in Test cricket. So, it has been a valuable experience for me,"  he added.

Chahal's consistent performance in ODIs, with 37 wickets in 23 matches since the 2019 World Cup, highlights his leg-spin skills' value. However, his limited appearances in the 50-over format in 2023 have left cricket enthusiasts curious about his absence from India's plans. 

While Chahal's absence from the 2023 World Cup squad may raise questions among fans and cricket pundits, his impressive track record in ODIs underscores his value as a leg-spinner. 

His performances have frequently played a pivotal role for the Indian cricket team in the past. Despite the perplexing sidelining of the 33-year-old cricketer in 50-over cricket in 2023, Chahal remains determined to make a strong comeback.