Pujara Highlights Kuldeep Yadavs Batting Limitations in ODI Team Selection

New Delhi, October 31 (Daily Kiran) : Former Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara believes Kuldeep Yadav’s batting weaknesses are a significant factor in his limited opportunities with the national ODI team. The team is in need of an additional batting option in the lower-middle order.

This year, Kuldeep has had minimal chances in ODI cricket, missing five out of twelve matches, many of which were played overseas. He was part of the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series against England but remained on the bench throughout. During that series, India opted to play Shivam Dube at number 8, while spinners Axar Patel and Washington Sundar were given the nod.

India typically prefers to field Harshit Rana at number 8; however, he is currently injured but remains part of future plans. Pujara attributed Kuldeep’s lack of opportunities to his batting skills, stating that this is the primary reason for his time on the bench.

In an interview with ‘JioStar,’ Pujara emphasized the need for depth in ODI cricket, especially when playing outside India. He noted, “A team’s balance improves when they have options for batting at numbers 7 and 8. There should be an all-rounder at number 7, and at number 8, a bowler who can contribute with the bat. Kuldeep is a very good bowler, but his batting isn’t at that level. This is why India is always looking for a player who can bat at number 8.”

Former cricketer and assistant coach Abhishek Nair also underscored the importance of including five specialist bowlers in the playing eleven. He referenced Australia’s strategy during the 2023 World Cup, stating, “In T20 cricket, depth is crucial as you play aggressively. In ODIs, you have time to adapt to conditions. If you don’t take wickets, no matter how long your batting lineup is, it’s tough to win a championship relying on a seventh or eighth-order batsman.”

Nair further explained, “However, there have been instances where the fifth bowler can lead you to a championship. Australia’s bowling was pivotal in their last World Cup victory. They consistently took wickets in the final, restricting India to a low score and clinching the championship. For me, bowlers are what win tournaments in ODI matches.”