India captain Rohit Sharma has subtly hinted that R Ashwin is in the scheme of things and could play in Sunday’s World Cup 2023 final against Australia, most likely, if he plays, he will replace Mohammed Siraj.
India and Australia will take centerstage at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Australia are eyeing their 6th ODI World Cup trophy, and India their 3rd title.
There is a growing chance that Rohit Sharma could bring in R Ashwin for this final. Ashwin has played only one match in the tournament – India’s first game against Australia in Chennai. Ashwin returned with brilliant figures of 1/34 but didn’t play any game after that.
However, with Australi having two left-handers – Warner and Travis Head- as their openers, and Rohit saying that the pitch will be on the slower side, there is a chance for Ashwin to replace Siraj, who was very expensive in the semi-final against New Zealand, leaking 78 runs in 9 overs.
Rohit Sharma attended the press conference on Saturday. When asked whether R Ashwin could play, Rohit suggested Ashwin is in the 12-13 final players they have decided, and a decision will be made on the morning of the match after looking at the surface.
About Ashwin’s potential inclusion in the final, Rohit Sharma said: “We haven’t decided on it. We will assess the pitch and will see it again tomorrow. Our 12-13 are decided. But we will come and see what is our strength. We will decide tomorrow.”
Even though India have not changed their playing XI for the last 6 matches, given Ashwin’s match-up against Warner and Head, the senior off-spinner could get the nod.
We have been calm and composed: Rohit Sharma
One of the best traits of this Indian team has been their calmness and composure, even when entering the semi-final against New Zealand.
Rohit Sharma alluded on this further, saying: “Leading up to every game, we have been calm and composed about what we want to do. We know what the outside environment is, the expectations, and pressure. It’s important to stick to our game and this has been happening for a long time.
“We have worked on maintaining the calmness in the dressing room. Inside what they feel, I don’t know, how they’ll be feeling. But when in meetings, trainings, everyone is calm. Being an Indian cricketer, you have to deal with pressure.”
