Former Indian player Madan Lal said that though it is great that speedster Jasprit Bumrah has made his return to the national side for the series against Ireland, the Indian bowling attack will have to perform as a unit to win the ICC Cricket World Cup at home, which will be held from October 5 to November 19 this year. However, Jasprit Bumrah will lead India during the T20I series against Ireland, starting in August, and announced the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on July 31 as well.
“It is good that he is going to Ireland. He will get to play matches and get to know where he stands with regard to his fitness. He will have to play matches and maintain continuity. It is really important that he plays the World Cup and should not take any unnecessary chances. Though Bumrah is an asset for us, one bowler cannot change everything. Our bowling will have to perform as a unit. If they do not do well for us, it would become difficult for us,” said Madan Lal to ANI.
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Former Indian all-rounder said that it is very important that players put hard work in the middle order because a strong middle order can increase India’s chances at the World Cup as well.
“They (Middle order) batters are playing regularly, getting exposure. If you do not perform, what is all this hard work worth? It is upto players to perform, it will make the middle order strong and confident. If we have a good middle order, only then India will have a chance to win the WC,” Madan Lal said, “It is quite a debate. The thing with Rahul is that he has just recovered, he will play matches, we will get to know about his form. Maybe we can send two wicketkeepers for the World Cup, KL Rahul and Ishan. Ishan is playing really well and has made a case for himself. We will see how Rahul plays. According to me, the team management will go with Rahul.”
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The former all-rounder also said that India can make a comeback during the T20I series against West Indies as well. India are 0-2 down in the series of five matches as well. “Team can make a comeback. The series consists of five matches. West Indies is a good T20I side and they have a style suited to the format. They can give India a tough time. India has to be really careful about it,” concluded Madan Lal.
