It has been four years since India faced a disappointing semi final exit in the 2019 ODI World Cup. Sourav Ganguly’s statement, one of the main subjects of discussion during that tournament, was India’s struggle to discover a dependable batsman for the crucial number 4 position in their batting lineup.
This means that when India was playing, they had difficulty finding a player who could consistently perform well and contribute significant runs from the fourth batting position.
The highly anticipated 2023 ODI World Cup, the Indian cricket team is once again grappling with a familiar predicament. The team is confronted with a perplexing situation that demands a strategic solution.
Just as in the past, the challenge lies in finding the most effective combination. Players with tactics and strategies to ensure success in the upcoming tournament.
India currently has a good number of talented choices available for batting. Players like Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant are considered among the best in the world. However, the drawback is that, as of now, none of them are completely free from injuries, which is affecting their fitness.
Sourav Ganguly’s Statement on Probable No.4 Batters
Pant might not be completely ready for the big upcoming tournament due to his fitness concerns. Yet, the most recent updates suggest a positive outlook for Iyer and Rahul’s participation.
India is particularly eager for both Shreyas Iyer and Rahul to recover from their injuries because their presence would significantly strengthen the team’s batting lineup in the middle part of the game.
KL Rahul has reportedly begun practising wicketkeeping at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru. This means he is learning how to be the wicketkeeper during cricket matches.
On another note, a decision about Iyer is expected to be made shortly. This means a choice about Iyer’s situation will be taken soon, but the specific decision is not mentioned here.
“Who said we don’t have a No. 4? We have so many (batsmen) who can bat at that spot. I think differently; my mindset is different. This is a fantastic side,” Sourav Ganguly’s Statement at an event in Kolkata
Sourav Ganguly on Tilak Varma as a probable replacement for Iyer
On an exciting note, Sourav Ganguly’s statement suggested the 20-year-old Tilak Varma as Shreyas Iyer’s replacement. Tilak Varma has already shown his destructive nature in the middle order in the India vs West Indies series.
“Ganguly views Tilak Varma as a left-handed option, highlighting his talent despite limited experience. He also praises Jaiswal, another young left-hander, for his fearless ability. Overall, he’s excited about the team’s potential.” Ganguly’s opinion
Ganguly suggests that India should form a team for the upcoming World Cup that includes both experienced and young players. This way, the team would benefit from the skills and knowledge of the veterans while also infusing new energy and talent from the younger members.
“The ideal team should comprise both seasoned players and fresh talents like Jaiswal, Varma, and Ishan Kishan. Dravid, Rohit, and the selectors have a pool of options; their task is to select the finest XI.” Ganguly concluded
