ICC Cricket World Cup 2023: On Shami and Ashwin's Exclusion From India's Playing 11, Bowling Coach Says 'Sometimes You Will...'

India's World Cup campaign has been truly remarkable, marked by three consecutive wins, including a breathtaking victory over their long-standing rivals, Pakistan.

The absence of two key players, Mohammed Shami and Ravichandran Ashwin, from the Playing 11 has garnered the attention of cricket enthusiasts.

The Indian bowling coach, Paras Mhambrey, has addressed the situation and provided an explanation.

He stated that the decisions regarding the playing 11 have been made with the team's best interest in mind and to ensure that the momentum gained in the tournament is maintained. He made it clear that the team is not currently discussing rotation.

Currently, we do not have any plans or discussions regarding rotation from our perspective. "We aim to maintain this momentum in the next game as well," Mhambrey stated, as quoted by PTI.

The pace duo consisting of Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah has delivered outstanding performances in the three matches.

Siraj has taken three wickets in the tournament, while Bumrah is currently the leading wicket-taker with eight wickets in three matches.

Furthermore, the outstanding performance of left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who has taken five wickets in the tournament, has resulted in Ashwin being kept on the sidelines.

Mhambrey acknowledged the challenge of excluding a talented fast bowler like Shami. Additionally, he mentioned that the team management has effectively communicated with the players regarding the reasons for their exclusion.

Mhambrey explained that there are instances where one may miss out, just like someone like him or Ash (referring to Ravichandran Ashwin) might miss out.

He emphasised that this was the message they had communicated to Ashwin, and they were very clear about it.

He also commended Ashwin for his team-oriented mindset and praised his ability to understand and support the team's decisions.

Although Ashwin was dropped from the playing 11 after the opening game against Australia, he has remained a positive and supportive presence within the squad.

He has proven to be an exceptional individual who possesses a deep understanding of the situation. Additionally, he consistently demonstrates his commitment to being a valuable team member.

According to the former India player, I have never witnessed him being grumpy or complaining in any way throughout the past few years that he has been with us.

The bowling coach also brought up the topic of Suryakumar Yadav's exclusion from the team. He praised Suryakumar as a "champion" and a "match-winner" who possesses the ability to adapt to different situations on the pitch.

However, the team is currently performing well, which presents a challenge in finding a place for him in the lineup.

Making a decision can be challenging, just like choosing between Ashwin and Shami. "Surya is an exceptional player, and it is quite challenging to find someone of his calibre," Mhabrey expressed.

You should provide him with an opportunity to play, but then the question arises: who should be replaced in his position? Unfortunately, we do not currently have an available slot for him.

However, it is widely recognised and acknowledged what valuable contributions he brings to the table. He added that if an opportunity arises, he will be ready to showcase his skills.

The next match for India is scheduled against Bangladesh on October 19th in Pune.