Overview:
Gavaskar explained that the Oman match presents an opportunity for India to make changes.
Sunil Gavaskar has urged India to plan for their Super 4 campaign in the Asia Cup, saying that pacer Jasprit Bumrah should be rested not only for the final group-stage match against Oman but also for the opening Super 4 game against Pakistan on September 21.
Speaking to broadcasters, Gavaskar explained that the Oman match presents an opportunity for India to make changes. This would allow the team to test its bench strength while giving key players like Sanju Samson, Tilak Verma, and Hardik Pandya some much-needed game time in the middle.
“India might opt to bat first and retain the same opening pair. Perhaps Suryakumar Yadav, the captain, could move down the order, allowing Tilak Verma and Sanju Samson to get batting practice,” Gavaskar said.
“This would provide the batters with some valuable practice, not just for the game against Pakistan, but also for the Super 4 matches against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. It’s more about getting the batters ready than focusing on the bowlers,” he added.
Gavaskar recommended resting Jasprit Bumrah, even for the Pakistan game, to ensure he’s ready for the match against Sri Lanka on September 26.
“Jasprit Bumrah should be rested, possibly even for the Pakistan game, so he’s ready for the more crucial match against Sri Lanka on the 26th. That’s what India should be focusing on.”