Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar expressed astonishment at Chahal’s unexpected selection for the ODI series against South Africa, considering him a better fit for T20s.
Sanjay Manjrekar expressed surprise at Yuzvendra Chahal’s selection for India’s ODI squad against South Africa, comprising four spinners – Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, and Chahal. Speaking on the Star Sports show ‘Game Plan,’ Manjrekar, while satisfied with the seam-bowling options, found Chahal’s inclusion unexpected. He also highlighted the element of workload management and expressed delight at Deepak Chahar’s return.
Manjrekar further praised Mukesh Kumar’s reliability but mused about Chahal’s suitability more in the T20 format, pointing out the presence of a talent like Ravi Bishnoi for that role within the team’s bowling lineup.
India is set to play three T20Is followed by three ODIs against South Africa, commencing in Durban this Sunday(December 10).
“I like it. Again this is workload management, but I am excited with the fact that Deepak Chahar is back because I like him as a cricketer. Avesh Khan gets another opportunity,” Manjrekar said.
“I believe Mukesh Kumar is a sturdy and dependable bowler, he has come. Chahal is a surprise inclusion. I thought Chahal was more your bowler for T20 cricket but there they have got somebody like a (Ravi) Bishnoi,” he added.
Despite Chahal’s 121 wickets at an economy rate of 5.26 in 69 ODI innings, he was excluded from the 2023 World Cup, with Kuldeep chosen over him as the lone wrist-spinner. His chances against South Africa also remain uncertain due to Kuldeep’s presence in the squad.
Last Updated on December 10, 2023
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