In the upcoming Cricket World Cup 2023, teams around the globe are finalizing their squads for the highly anticipated tournament. However, when it comes to the Indian conditions, teams might consider making some interesting lineup changes. This opens up an opportunity for out-of-favour players who have been waiting in the wings to make a surprising return and leave their mark on the grand stage.

Let’s take a look at three such players who could potentially make a comeback and make a significant impact in the tournament.

#1 Martin Guptill

Martin Guptill, the explosive opening batsman from New Zealand, could be one of the surprise inclusions in the Kiwi squad. With his vast experience playing in Asia, Guptill’s ability to adapt to challenging conditions could prove invaluable for New Zealand. After his last international game in 2022 against Australia, Guptill has been out of the national team.

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However, with the injury to Kane Williamson, the New Zealand team will be looking for an experienced campaigner to provide stability at the top of the order. Guptill, who is just two matches away from playing his 200th ODI for New Zealand, could be the ideal choice to fill that void.

#2 Joe Root

One of the world’s finest batsmen, Joe Root, has been absent from England’s white-ball team since July 2022. Despite being a prolific run-scorer in Test cricket, Root’s exclusion from the limited-overs setup has raised eyebrows. However, his exceptional batting skills, coupled with his ability to anchor innings, make him a valuable asset for England.

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With an average of 50.0 and 158 ODI caps to his name, Root possesses the experience and temperament required for high-pressure encounters. His inclusion in the squad could provide stability and guidance to the young English side, enabling the other batsmen to play around him.

#3 Ravichandran Ashwin

The seasoned Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has been out of the limited-overs setup for quite some time. However, the World Cup being held in India presents a golden opportunity for Ashwin to showcase his skills on spin-friendly pitches. As the number one ranked test bowler in the world, Ashwin’s experience and expertise in subcontinent conditions could prove vital for the Indian team. The selectors will undoubtedly consider his inclusion, especially with matches scheduled in Chennai and Lucknow, where his knowledge of the local conditions could be a significant advantage.

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These out-of-favor stars have the potential to bring a fresh dynamic to their respective teams in the Cricket World Cup 2023. Their experience, skill sets, and ability to adapt to different conditions could prove decisive in determining the success of their teams. As the tournament unfolds, it will be fascinating to see if these players get the opportunity to make a surprising return and contribute significantly to their team’s campaign. The stage is set, and fans around the world eagerly await the excitement and drama that the World Cup always brings.