Ravichandran Ashwin wasn’t a part of India’s playing XI of the first Test against England in Nottingham. Several questions were asked after this move as Ravindra Jadeja played ahead of him despite Ashwin being the more proven spinner overseas.
Shardul Thakur was a surprise inclusion, who was given a nod ahead of Ashwin because of his batting prowess.
Both Ashwin and Jadeja featured together during the World Test Championship Final against New Zealand in Southampton and former Indian cricket Aakash Chopra believes the same should be the case in the second Test at Lord’s. He sees Shardul Thakur should be dropped in order to make way for Ashwin.
“One hundred per cent. You want to play five bowlers and don’t want to compromise on your batting, I totally get it. But in that, you should definitely play Ashwin and Jaddu and both will bat well also. It will be unfortunate that you will have to leave out Shardul,” said Chopra while referring to the possibility of Ashwin and Jadeja playing together.
Former opener believes Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj are the perfect fast-bowling lineup for India in the Lord’s Test.
Also Read: Aakash Chopra slams Team India’s move to drop Ravichandran Ashwin
“You will play your three premier bowlers, who are Bumrah, Shami and Siraj after this Test match – Ishant will also have to wait. That’s the nature of the beast, you get injured and someone plays and ensures his place, then it takes longer for you to come back,” explained cricketer-turned-commentator Chopra.
Both, Siraj and Shardul, bowled well during the first Test and picked wickets at crucial intervals. It will be interesting to see what team combination will be picked by the team management for the second Test, which will be played on August 12 in London.
