Ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah is in incredible form at the moment and will be extremely crucial for India in the upcoming ODI World Cup. He was out injured for a long time before making his return in the series against Ireland and in the Asia Cup, he bowled in only four matches. Hence, former cricketer Wasim Akram believes that the ace pacer should play at least two ODIs against Australia, to maintain his rhythm.
Akram also added that Suryakumar Yadav should play all the matches, including the practice matches in the lead-up to the ODI World Cup. The flamboyant batter is yet to prove himself in the 50-over format and hence, Akram believes that he should spend more time batting in the middle. He also added that star batter Virat Kohli can take a break in a few matches to stay fresh for the marquee tournament.
“Out of the three games (against Australia), Bumrah should play at least two as he is coming out of injury. His rhythm is looking good, he’s looking incredible but his muscles can get stronger. Suryakumar Yadav is struggling in ODIs recently, he can play all those five games (Australia series and two warm-ups). Sometimes, Virat can rest as well because it is a long World Cup. They have to play 9 games,” Akram said on Star Sports.
Notably, India are to play a three-match ODI series against Australia starting September 22 in Mohali. Skipper Rohit Sharma has already confirmed that Axar Patel might miss the first two matches of the series as he is currently dealing with a hamstring injury, which might keep him out for at least a week to 10 days. Washington Sundar, who was called up in his absence in the Asia Cup final is likely to be called up once again.
After the series against Australia, India will also play a couple of warm-up games against England and the Netherlands before challenging the Kangaroos on October 8 in their first match of the World Cup.