The cricketing world is abuzz with discussions and debates following the announcement of India’s 15-member squad for the upcoming World Cup. Among those sharing their perspectives on the team setup is veteran spinner Piyush Chawla, who voiced his opinions on the middle-order choices while advocating for Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul over Shreyas Iyer.
Piyush Chawla’s viewpoint challenges the selection of Shreyas Iyer in India’s World Cup squad, suggesting that Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul are better-suited candidates for the middle-order roles.
“We are talking about both of them, why not Shreyas Iyer? Shreyas Iyer’s place should also be questioned. Ishan (Kishan) cannot remain in the reserves now because of the way he has batted in the top order,” Chawla shared during a discussion on Star Sports.
Ishan Kishan’s recent form with the bat has been nothing short of exceptional. He has notched impressive scores of 82, 77, 55, and 52 in his last four ODIs, solidifying his case for inclusion in the playing XI.
Chawla emphasized Ishan’s versatility and ability to perform in the middle order, addressing the long-standing concern about the absence of a left-hander in that position.
“So, he is straightaway a walk-in for me. If we talk about KL Rahul, his track record is so good and he has done so well over the years,” Chawla continued, offering his support for KL Rahul’s inclusion in the team.
Piyush Chawla also highlighted the importance of having a specialist wicketkeeper, especially in specific conditions. He urged the think tank to back Ishan Kishan as the specialist wicketkeeper when India plays in venues like Chennai and Lucknow.
“In Chennai and Lucknow, the No. 1 wicketkeeper will be a specialist wicketkeeper, and Ishan Kishan is a specialist wicketkeeper,” Chawla asserted.
As the cricketing world awaits the action-packed World Cup, the selection debates continue, with players like Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul receiving support from seasoned voices like Piyush Chawla. The final XI for India’s matches will be closely scrutinized, and fans eagerly anticipate how these decisions will impact the team’s performance on the global stage.