Former Indian fast bowler Shanthakumaran Sreesanth has expressed his belief that KL Rahul should participate in all the matches of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia as part of his preparation for the ODI World Cup. Rahul, who recently made a remarkable comeback during the Asia Cup 2023, is set to lead the Indian team in the first two ODIs against Australia in the absence of Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya.
Rahul had made a spectacular return to the Indian team after an extended injury break, scoring a century against Pakistan in a Super 4 encounter during the Asia Cup 2023. He also showcased impressive wicketkeeping skills and game awareness while advising captain Rohit on DRS (Decision Review System) calls. Sreesanth, a member of the 2011 World Cup-winning team, emphasized the importance of Rahul’s consistent presence in the lead-up to the World Cup.
S Sreesanth stated, “I would ask the likes of KL Rahul to play all the games and maintain the consistency that we spoke about. Show Australia that it will be worse for them in the World Cup. Just demoralize them and make sure we don’t lose.”
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Despite resting key players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Hardik Pandya for the first two matches against Australia, India retained their pace bowlers from the Asia Cup squad, raising some concerns. However, Sreesanth advised caution with star fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and suggested that he should be rested if there’s any hint of injury or discomfort.
S Sreesanth commented, “It will be interesting to see the kind of pitches they offer to Australia in the series. But I want Bumrah to be rested if there is a niggle. Let him decide how his body is feeling. He deserves to make that decision and choose his priority.”
The former paceman also emphasized the importance of managing fast bowlers effectively during the series, including rotating them and fostering partnerships among the pace attack.
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“The use of fast bowlers would be crucial. They should rotate them, and the fast bowlers should focus on bowling in partnerships,” S Sreesanth added.
The three-match ODI series between India and Australia is set to commence on September 22 in Mohali. It will serve as a crucial tune-up for both teams as they seek to fine-tune their combinations ahead of the ODI World Cup 2023.
