Shardul Thakur or R Ashwin? Daniel Vettori talks about India’s possible playing XI for WTC Final 2023 vs Australia

Australia’s assistant coach, Daniel Vettori has expressed uncertainty about Ravichandran Ashwin’s participation in the upcoming World Test Championship final between Australia and India while Ravindra Jadeja is expected to feature in India’s playing XI. Vettori mentioned that the team management discussed extensively about India’s possible bowling attack. He believes Jadeja’s inclusion is likely because of his batting prowess and success at the No.6 position. However, questions remain over the fourth seamer and the selection between Shardul Thakur and Ashwin.

high energy level

increasing the intensity with each subsequent session #WTC23 ,#TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/q6IAORAkIz– BCCI (@BCCI) June 2, 2023

“We are debating it,” Vettori said. All-rounders in (Shardul) Thakur and Ashwin, but they (both) are very good options.” However, Vettori feels that despite enjoying a good record in England, Ashwin might miss out on a place in the playing XI due to team combination.

Acknowledging Ashwin’s exceptional skills as a bowler, Vettori said he would be the first-choice player in most teams. However, he believes that the team combination may miss out on Ashwin’s selection in the playing XI. Despite Ashwin’s good record in England, taking 18 wickets in seven matches at 28.11, he has played only one Test at The Oval.

“Ashwin is an incredible bowler and he will be the first choice in most teams, and just because of his combination it could (miss out),” Vettori said. The wicket is good, but it can give a lot to the spinners as the game progresses.” Vettori also expects Cameron Green to play a big role in the WTC final, especially after his impressive performance in the recently concluded IPL. Any cricket preparation now. He’s working in the background to make sure his bowling load is up and he’s really ready for Test cricket,” Vettori said of Green.

The assistant coach expects the Oval wicket to behave like it usually does, helping spinners as the match progresses. Vettori also emphasized on the potential impact of Cameron Green in the final considering his impressive performance in the recently concluded IPL. He highlighted Green’s preparation behind the scenes to ensure he was ready for Test cricket, praising his involvement in high-intensity cricket.

Vettori said playing cricket regularly helps players maintain their form and rhythm. He admitted that making the transition from the break to competitive cricket can be challenging for those who have had an extended gap. However, he expressed confidence in Green’s ability to handle the demands of the game given his extensive cricketing experience. Welcoming his return to the team, Vettori praised Green’s contribution to the team during the series in India and their successful IPL campaign.

“We look at it as if you are involved in high-intensity, high-class cricket, we are happy with it because it means you are playing cricket. The hardest thing for guys is to come out of nothing and it can be a challenge for some guys who have had an extended break and how they get up to speed as quickly as possible,” he said. “With Cameron I Looks like he has been playing so much cricket, he will be fine. It’s great to have him back. He has given a lot to the team and played a great series for us in India and then is coming back with a successful IPL.”

Overall, Vettori’s comments shed light on Australia’s expectations and thoughts about India’s bowling attack, especially with regard to the selection of Jadeja and Ashwin. The assistant coach also expressed optimism regarding Green’s participation in the WTC Finals, highlighting his valuable contributions to his preparations and team.