As the World comes knocking on our doors, it’s time for the cricketing season’s finale. It’s not everyday that the selectors face this challenging task of picking out 15 of the innumerable talented men around, to entrust them with bringing back the most coveted silverware in the cricketing world; to crown the nation as the ruler of the cricketing kingdom. Yes, it’s that time, and here’s NewsMobile’s list of who could make the cut.
Murali Vijay
Not just he in good nick, he also comes across as a very sensible batsman, who’s performed very well of late. And mind you, all these performances have come in Australia, which hosts a major part of the World Cup in February. He’s been defensive, respecting the good balls, but has also ensured that the bad balls are punished.
Shikhar Dhawan
There’s the need for another opener and Shikhar Dhawan it has to be. Even though he hasn’t been performing to his potential in the Test series, but remember, he’s one hell of a batsman when it comes to the shorter format of the game — extremely aggressive and quick to pile them up. His tour to Australia would also give him an edge.
Ajinkya Rahane
Although his average is a shade under 30, yet, it barely justifies his batting prowess. His rare ability to switch from cautious to aggressive in an instant is what makes him an asset. He is also a great fielder.
Virat Kohli
Newly appointed captain who’s smashed the ball left, right and centre. The second highest scoring in this current series after Steven Smith. Electrifying fielder. And all this in Australia. Need we say more?
Suresh Raina
By far, one of the most experienced players in the side. His best quality is the fact that he can also double up as a bowler to put a lid on the scoring rates. With more than 5000 runs to his name and a record of being a good finisher, there’s no doubt on this name.
MS Dhoni
He’s the skipper. He’s an excellent finisher. He’s the wicketkeeper. He’s won the T20 World and also the ICC World Cup.
Axar Patel
Hasn’t been around for too long to bowl us over, but he could very well be the young blood that Team India needs. His First Class average is 42, and he has been pretty impressive, especially when it came to bowling. Could be a gamble, but why not!
Parvez Rasool
Another all rounder, something that the Indian team has always lacked. A first bowling all-rounder actually. A great off-spinner who can bat. He’s just one match old and two international wickets strong. But then, good chance to utilise his talent.
R Ashwin
I wouldn’t dare call him a spinner. He’s an all-rounder by all rights. Experienced too. He can bat, by God he can bowl, he can contain the runs and take some wickets. He can add depth to India’s struggling tail. What else would a team want?
Karn Sharma
Another one of those young guns, but one who has impressed. He has about 1000 runs in First Class cricket and he also recently made his debut in Australia. He has 4 wickets, but all of them have been good.
Amit Mishra
His economy rate is decent and also because there’s no more spinners in our kitty. That’s why.
Ishant Sharma
Love him, hate him, he won’t let you forget him. Come on, World Cup squad and no place for the Test vice captain? Also because he comes with handy experience.
Mohammed Shami
Bowls his heart out. Also because he’s been there in Australia for a gotten hit by the Aussies, made mistakes for learnings to happen. Good pick, he should be.
Umesh Yadav
This guy brings a lot to the table. He’s got the stinging pace, he’s got a lot of variety up his sleeve, he can trick the batsmen too.
Varun Aaron
Aaron has been pretty impressive in the Australian tour. Not too great, bit not to bad either. Also, he can be a good back-up.