Veteran Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan has stated that he was a bit surprised when he was dropped from the squad for the men’s cricket event in the Asian Games to be played in September-October this year. However, Dhawan had led the Indian team in a few ODIs back in 2022 and it seemed like the veteran would definitely lead the Men in Blue in the Asian Games. But they named a young squad with Ruturaj Gaikwad as the captain as well.
Speaking to PTI, Shikhar Dhawan said: “When my name was not there (for Asian Games), I was a bit shocked. But, then, I was like they have a different thought process, you just have to accept it. Happy that Rutu (Gaikwad) will lead the side. All the young boys are there, I am sure they will do well.”
However, Shikhar Dhawan hasn’t yet given up on making a comeback in the team and he has tried to keep himself as fit as possible. He also opined that he hasn’t yet decided anything about his future. He is currently the captain of the Punjab Kings and he also wants to play domestic white-ball tournaments to get himself ready for the next IPL season as well.
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“I will be ready, of course. That is why I keep myself fit (so whenever I get a chance I am ready). There is always a chance whether it is one percent or 20 percent. I still enjoy training and I still enjoy the game, these are the things in my control. Whatever decision is made, I respect that,” He added, “I have not spoken to any selector (about my future). I keep going to NCA. I enjoy my time there, the facilities are great. NCA has shaped my career and I am grateful for it. Also I have to prepare for the IPL. I will be playing the Syed Mushtaq Ali and, hopefully, the Vijay Hazare as well.”
He also picked Suryakumar Yadav as his choice for the No. 4 position in the Indian team for the 2023 World Cup. According to Dhawan, Suryakumar Yadav seems a good choice since he is experienced and he has been playing international cricket for quite some time now. However, his comments came as India have failed to find a batter for the No. 4 spot due to multiple injury issues. Moreover, uncertainty prevails over the availability of Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul because of their injuries.
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“I would go with Surya at four as he is an experienced player and has been playing international cricket for a while,” he said. “Also, really looking forward to seeing how Shubman Gill does in the World Cup. Another batter to watch out for will be Rohit Sharma as he did exceptionally well in the last World Cup. We have got a very good side which has the right blend of experience and youth. We will have the home advantage. We know the grounds and pitches and that is going to come in very handy.”
