The excitement surrounding the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 final between India and Australia is palpable. Scheduled at The Oval in London from June 7 to June 11, this summit clash promises to be a cricketing spectacle. With time running out before the first ball is bowled, cricket pundits and former Indian cricketers have been unveiling their preferred playing XI for the Indian team.
Recently, Harbhajan Singh, the veteran India spinner, shared his ideal Indian team combination. His insight might help India, last year’s runners-up, clinch a victory against a formidable Australian side. Harbhajan revealed his team combination on his official Youtube channel. Not just the perfect XI, but he also shared his views on the inclusion of Suryakumar Yadav.
Suryakumar Yadav is among the three reserve players in the Indian squad. Harbhajan believes that his inclusion could be beneficial for the team. The final call, of course, will rest with the team management, who will consider the pitch condition, opposition, and form of players before making a decision.
Moving onto Harbhajan’s preferred playing XI, he starts with the openers. He selects Rohit Sharma, who is also the team’s captain, and Shubman Gill. The experienced Sharma and the dynamic Gill would ideally provide a solid start for the Indian side.
Next, Harbhajan picks the dependable Cheteshwar Pujara and former Indian captain Virat Kohli for the crucial number three and four spots. Ajinkya Rahane, known for his steady batting, is his choice for the number five position. KS Bharat is Harbhajan’s pick for the wicket-keeper spot.
Harbhajan Singh picks his India XI for the ICC World Test Championship Final 2023
For the all-rounders, Harbhajan opts for Ravindra Jadeja. Jadeja’s exceptional fielding and effective bowling, along with his ability to score quick runs, make him an ideal choice. The final bowling slots, according to Harbhajan, should go to Shardul Thakur or Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, and Umesh Yadav.
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Harbhajan’s proposed XI indicates a balanced side, consisting of a robust top order, a steady middle order, a reliable wicketkeeper-batsman, a capable all-rounder, and a potent bowling attack. However, as Harbhajan suggests, the conditions at The Oval will also play a critical role in the final team selection.
In conclusion, the build-up to the WTC final is gaining momentum. Harbhajan’s preferred Indian XI is just one of the many predictions and speculations that add to the excitement of the game. While the final decision lies with the team management, cricket fans worldwide will eagerly be anticipating the official announcement of the playing XI. Undoubtedly, the selection will significantly influence the dynamics and outcome of the much-awaited final showdown at The Oval.
Harbhajan Singh’s Playing XI for India: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur/ Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj, Umesh Yadav
