In a riveting display of talent during the recent T20 International match in Delhi, India’s cricket team showcased not just their audacious batting skills, but an impressive depth of bowling resources as well. For the first time, seven bowlers successfully claimed wickets, marking a new milestone for India in a T20I setting. Intriguingly, among these effective bowlers, Hardik Pandya, a usual stalwart, didn’t make the list.
Suryakumar Yadav, India’s captain for the match, found himself with a buffet of bowling options. He did not need to rely on himself or even call upon Rinku Singh, whose joint bowling efforts alongside Yadav had previously taken India to a dramatic tie against Sri Lanka a couple of months back. Suryakumar could have utilized as many as ten different players to bowl the collective 20 overs in both the Delhi match and the preceding game in Gwalior. Fortunately, the scenario never demanded such an extensive bowling rotation, which aligned with the captain’s pre-series hopes.
For India, managing a squad where batters who can’t bowl frequently take up slots has been a recurring challenge. Axar Patel’s rise has, to some extent, remedied this weakness. However, as recently as the last ODI World Cup, India had to contend with only four dependable bowlers and an all-rounder due to Hardik Pandya’s untimely injury that sidelined him from the tournament.
The current squad boasts a more diverse skill set, featuring players like Nitish Reddy, who took on the new ball role in Delhi, and Riyan Parag, who proved his mettle on spin-friendly pitches during the Sri Lanka series. Additionally, Abhishek Sharma’s contributions cannot be overlooked; he boasts a credible record of 134 T20 overs at an economy rate just above seven, highlighted by a sterling 3-for-7 performance. Furthermore, the memories of Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh’s composed bowling in a nail-biting finish at Pallekele remain fresh in Indian cricketing lore.
India’s assistant coach, Ryan ten Doeschate, commented on the strategic advantage offered by having multiple bowling options. “The evolving nature of the game rarely sees all five or even six bowlers performing perfectly on any given day. It’s valuable to have backup options,” he observed. “It’s also great to see someone like Hardik not bowling in the last game, which just underscores the current depth of our bowling squad.”
Balance, according to ten Doeschate, is crucial. “It’s a delicate act of ensuring we don’t overcrowd our roster with either too many frontline bowlers or too many specialist batters. Having versatile players gives us the flexibility to select an expert when needed, and it offers the captain a toolkit of strategies to choose from.
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India’s team selection, focused on players who can adapt and master multiple roles, presents the team with beneficial challenges, particularly with imminent World Cups and the Champions Trophy. “Evaluating the depth we’ve witnessed so far is promising. These players can take on various roles, ensuring team balance based on game conditions. Take Riyan, for instance: although his role hasn’t been highlighted in this series, we view him as someone who can occupy key batting positions and provide a finishing touch,” the assistant coach explained.
Regarding selection, ten Doeschate noted the importance of overlapping series and venues like the upcoming Champions Trophy, Asia Cup, and yet another World Cup. “We must evaluate where each player stands in terms of contribution to Indian cricket.”
He emphasized the importance of the newcomers’ integration into the team. “We’ve seen two major T20I debuts [Mayank Yadav and Nitish Reddy], vital for our squad’s development. Having players like Jitesh, Tilak Verma, and Harshit Rana observing, learning, and preparing is crucial since they will play pivotal roles in the 18-month period ahead.”
This strategic depth extends beyond the immediate playing XI, with significant untapped potential sitting on the bench. Players like Jitesh Sharma and Tilak Varma have yet to be featured prominently, but the promising form of Sanju Samson, currently playing as a makeshift opener, likely means they will get a chance soon. Harshit Rana is also lined up for a potential debut appearance.
Addressing Sanju Samson’s place in the team, ten Doeschate commented, “Samson, especially after Gwalior’s match, represents our team’s commitment to fearless cricket. It would have been easy for him to play conservatively, but he pushed boundaries, taking risks. This reflects our ongoing message and philosophy: pushing the limits and evolving our style in line with modern cricket.”
Ryan stressed the team management’s intent to absorb as much experience as possible ahead of forthcoming international contests. “It’s crucial to introduce maximum fresh talents to the international scene. This includes players like Harshit Rana, whom we’re keen to debut. Originally, our plan was to clinch the series victory and then test new talents. It’s about giving players the belief to venture out and embrace their potential without fear, while readying them for pivotal upcoming matches.”