IND vs WI 2023: Cricket is a game of opportunities, and for some, these opportunities can be a long time coming. The Indian cricket team’s upcoming Test series against the West Indies poses an interesting conundrum for Navdeep Saini and Axar Patel. Both players, although talented, might not feature in any games in this series. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this conjecture.
1. Navdeep Saini
First, consider Navdeep, the fiery right-arm pacer from Delhi. Saini’s selection in the Indian Test team for the West Indies tour may raise eyebrows. His recent performances don’t reflect the sort of impact expected from a Test match bowler. In his two Test matches, he has managed only four wickets, averaging 43.
Moreover, Saini’s first-class record doesn’t offer compelling support for his selection either. An average of 28.36, while respectable, isn’t exactly impressive. This year, he featured in the Irani Trophy and played for India A, without significant returns.
Furthermore, the Indian pace battery has Jaydev Unadkat, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar and Shardul Thakur on the West Indies tour. Considering these factors, Saini’s chances of making it to the playing XI seem slim.
2. Axar Patel
Second, Axar , the talented left-arm spinner, is another player who might not get a chance in the series. Axar’s impressive Test statistics – a bowling average of 17.16 and a batting average of 36.64 – suggest he could be a formidable force in the team. However, the presence of Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin complicates matters.
Jadeja’s sterling performances with both bat and ball make his selection almost certain. Ashwin’s bowling prowess, combined with his experience, makes him a valuable asset too. Given the West Indies’ pitches, which may not warrant three specialist spinners, Axar might have to sit this series out.
IND vs WI 2023: It’s tough for Navdeep Saini and Axar Patel to find a place in the XI for the test series against West Indies
Despite their potential, Saini and Patel might find it tough to break into the playing XI in the upcoming series. However, being part of the squad provides a learning opportunity, a chance to hone their skills. Their moment in the sun might not be now, but with talent and persistence, it’s bound to come. After all, in cricket, timing is everything.
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