The Indian cricket team will start its journey in the 2023 Asia Cup with a blockbuster clash against Pakistan on 2nd September. The BCCI has selected a 17-member squad for the tournament with several top players making a comeback to the 50-over format after long injury lay-offs. Ex-BCCI selector Saba Karim shared his optimism about the squad and the returning players.
Saba Karim told Jio Cinema –
“This is a great opportunity for India to not only test their core strength but also their bench strength. It is a luxury for the selectors that they have been able to pick 17, so they can try out a few newcomers in the XI, as an when required.
Karim added – “This continental challenge will be a big test for India against the likes of Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh because all these teams have raised their respective games in the 50-over format. But I do feel that India hold a slight edge compared to others.”
Ex-India all-rounder Abhishek Nayar also spoke about India’s squad. He said – “I am pleasantly surprised to see Tilak in the squad. During the Wst Indies series we had a lot of discussions about who are the middle-order options for India.
“Tilak Varma can bowl also and he is a player for the future who has done well in the IPL also. Yes, it is a big call. Normally close to a World Cup you don’t want to take a lot of chances.
Abhishek added –
“But the Asia Cup is the perfect platform to test someone like Tilak Varma. And see what he is made of. When you have someone who has shown you a pattern in terms of performing under pressure, I don’t see that’s a bad thing.
“I think going forward he is someone who can fulfil the role that a Yuvraj and Raina played for India with both bat and ball. I think India should try him in big matches at the Asia Cup because if he does well. He could be India’s trump card or x-factor in the World Cup, whom no one has seen before.”
