‘ASH for WIN’ – Fans react as Ravichandran Ashwin is set to replace Axar Patel in ODI World Cup 2023

In a significant development, India has made a strategic change to its World Cup 2023 squad. They have replaced the injured all-rounder Axar Patel with the seasoned spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. Axar’s left quadriceps strain, incurred during the Asia Cup clash against Bangladesh, raised doubts about his participation. Although Washington Sundar filled in for him in the Asia Cup, Ashwin has secured his spot. He had done it with commendable performances in the recent ODI series against Australia.

Despite playing only four ODIs for India since 2017 and missing out on the 2019 World Cup selection, Ashwin’s inclusion brings a wealth of experience. The rest of the Indian squad remains unchanged, with Suryakumar Yadav retaining his spot after impressive displays against Australia. Shreyas Iyer has also proven both fitness and form, contributing to the team’s overall balance. Led by Rohit Sharma, the squad appears well-prepared to make a strong impact in the home World Cup after a 12-year hiatus.

India has showcased excellent ODI form recently, securing the Asia Cup title and triumphing over Australia in a series, establishing themselves as a formidable force. Initial concerns about the fitness of players like KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, and Jasprit Bumrah have been dispelled, with all three demonstrating their fitness and class.

The left-arm spinner’s unexpected injury in the Asia Cup prompted speculation about Ashwin’s potential wildcard entry into the World Cup squad. Ultimately, Ashwin’s inclusion is attributed to his big-match credentials, experience, and the versatile skills he brings to the team, making him the preferred choice over Washington Sundar.

Let us look at how Twitter has reacted to this change from the Indian cricket team;

https://twitter.com/holesomememe/status/1707396636618756360

https://twitter.com/Shukla_j_shivam/status/1707397183438528647

India will enter the tournament as favourites

Leading up to the ODI World Cup, the Indian cricket team is poised for crucial warm-up encounters.  They will be squaring off against England in Guwahati on September 30. Followed by facing the Netherlands in Thiruvananthapuram on October 3. As the current top-ranked ODI side globally they are certainly among the favorites’. The team is also intensively preparing for their World Cup campaign opener against Australia. India is scheduled to play Australia on October 8 at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium.

These preparatory matches play a pivotal role in gearing up the Indian team for success in the imminent tournament, establishing a significant foundation for their pursuit of victory.