Former India World Cup-winning captain Kapil Dev backed the selection of the returning KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer in the 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023. However, Iyer suffered a back injury during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy earlier this year and he was eventually ruled out of IPL 2023 as well. Rahul, on the other hand, picked up a thigh injury during the IPL clash against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and was also ruled out of the remainder of the tournament.
Meanwhile, chief selector Ajit Agarkar confirmed that Iyer is fully fit and that Rahul carries a slight niggle that should subside by India’s second game of the Asia Cup as well. Speaking on their selection on ABP News, Kapil Dev said it was the right move to test everyone before the World Cup 2023.
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“Ideally, every player should be tested out. The World Cup is so close but you still haven’t given the players a chance? What if they head to the World Cup and then get injured? The entire team will suffer. Here, at least they will get a chance to bat or bowl a little and get some rhythm going,” Kapil Dev said.”Worst case scenario, if the guys get injured again during the World Cup, it will be unfair to the players who will miss out on being part of the squad,” he added. “The injured players who have returned need to be given a chance. If they are fit, then can play the World Cup. There is no shortage of talent, but if they are not fit, India will have a chance to make changes to the World Cup squad right away.”
However, the duo will provide much-needed strength in India’s middle order. Since debuting for India in ODIs in 2016, KL Rahul has been playing a key role. He has batted at all positions from opening to No. 6 and has performed well also. Rahul has an overall ODI average of 45.13 in 54 matches, with five centuries and 13 fifties to his name. On the other hand, Shreyas Iyer averages 46.60 in ODIs, with two centuries and 14 fifties so far.
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“You have a wonderful opportunity to create a team for the World Cup and the Asia Cup is a fine platform. I want these players to go and express themselves. But if there is any sort of question mark, they don’t need to be around. If you do not give them a chance, it will be unfair to not just the players but also the selectors. I am aware that the World Cup is taking place in India but you need to pick the best and fittest team,” Kapil Dev concluded.
