India Likely to Rest Key Players Ahead of Asia Cup Final

With their place secured in the Asia Cup 2023 final, the Indian cricket team is expected to make several changes to their playing XI in the upcoming match against Bangladesh. While about four or five changes are anticipated, Shreyas Iyer’s participation remains doubtful due to his ongoing recovery from back spasms.

Iyer, who missed the match against Pakistan due to back spasms, batted during the team’s optional practice session but is still not at full fitness. It is unlikely that he will feature against Bangladesh, and if he misses this match, his chances of playing in the final are also slim, especially with KL Rahul performing well in his absence. Iyer may have to wait for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia for his return.

In the bowling department, it is likely that Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will be rested. Bumrah, in particular, is being given a break to manage his workload after a 10-month break from international cricket. Mohammed Shami and Prasidh Krishna are expected to replace them, with Shardul Thakur also likely to return to the playing XI.

Changes galore

There’s a possibility that Hardik Pandya might be left out as well, resulting in three changes in the bowling department – Bumrah, Siraj, and Pandya making way for Shami, Prasidh, and Thakur.

In terms of batting, changes in the order could provide opportunities for Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma, with Suryakumar being the more likely choice, given his inclusion in the World Cup squad. This could mean that one of the top-order batsmen, possibly even Virat Kohli, might sit out the match.

Speaking about these potential changes, India’s bowling coach Paras Mhambrey mentioned that the team is open to them, emphasizing the opportunity to provide rest to other players. He mentioned, “We have an opportunity to give the rest of the players a chance to play. So definitely it is open. I think the captain will announce it tomorrow (Friday). But it is an option as we have already qualified (for the final), so we will see tomorrow.”

The upcoming match against Bangladesh offers India a chance to test their bench strength and rest key players ahead of the Asia Cup final, maintaining a balanced approach in the tournament.

Stay updated with all the cricketing action, follow Cricadium on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram