3 players who need to step up for India in ODI World Cup 2023

The Indians have dazzled their home World Cup so far. Their dominating performances in all four matches that they have played make them one of the main contenders to lift the most prized possession in World Cricket, the ODI World Cup. In their last match against Bangladesh, they got a very comprehensive victory in Pune and now they will be heading to Dharamshala to face New Zealand. The Indian side has looked formidable but there is a lot of scope for improvement which can make them more ruthless as a unit. Let’s take a look at 3 players who need to step up for India in this World Cup. 

Mohammad Siraj

Siraj is one of the most important players of the Indian team but we have not seen the real Siraj in this tournament. He was in a terrifying form coming into this World Cup but has not found his mojo in the tournament so far. With the new ball, he has not picked wickets which is a cause of concern for India. India’s bowling has been of the highest order in this World Cup but Siraj’s contribution is not as much as he would have expected. He did pick some crucial wickets in the middle overs but the talismanic speedster must step up for India to make his side more dangerous going ahead in the tournament. 

Shardul Thakur

Captain Rohit Sharma has preferred to go with Shardul Thakur in the starting lineup instead of Mohammad Shami only because Thakur can also contribute with the bat. But Shardul’s contribution with the ball, which is his primary skill, has not been up to par in this World Cup. Shardul Thakur only bowled two overs against Pakistan which reflects the dwindling belief of Rohit Sharma in his skills. The all-rounder needs to take responsibility with the ball if he has to keep his place in the side. 

Shreyas Iyer

Shreyas Iyer is a pivotal player in India’s middle order and his performances matter a lot. Iyer scored a half-century against Pakistan but when India needed him against Australia, he threw his wicket. Against Bangladesh as well he could not do much in a run chase which could have been tricky. Indian batters have not had the opportunity to chase down big targets in this World Cup so far but there will be matches when they will have to go big and on those occasions, Shreyas Iyer will have to step up and justify his place in the starting lineup.