Mohammed Kaif provided his suggested starting eleven, including Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma as openers and Ishan Kishan in a batting role to provide attacking shots at number six. With varying opinions on team selection and the bowling attack, these expert analyses add to the anticipation surrounding the highly awaited WTC Final.
Speaking exclusively to Star Sports, former India cricketer Mohammed Kaif gave us his starting eleven for the WTC Final; he said:
“For the World Test Championship, the openers should be Shubhman Gill and Rohit Sharma, followed by Pujara, who plays at number three and has experience there. At number four would be Virat Kohli, followed by Rahane, who makes his return to the team.”
“I would play Ishan Kishan over KS Bharat because you want someone to play attacking shots at number six. After all, the ball is old, and Rishabh Pant used to play that role. At seven, I will play Jadeja, and at eight, I will either play Ashwin or Shardul, depending on the pitch conditions, and if the pitch suits spin, then Ashwin can target the left-handed batters like Warner, Travis Head and Khawaja, so it will be a good match up. I would take fast bowlers Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj, followed by Umesh Yadav at number 11. This would be my preferred playing 11 because it’s early June. Depending on the forecast, you will need three fast bowlers plus Jadeja and Ashwin or Shardul.”