The most discussed point these days is about the bowling options Team India will go with against New Zealand in the WTC final. If the conditions are dry, then India should go with two spinners and if the weather remains cold and there is grass on the pitch, then in that case they can go with four fast bowlers. Who will play largely depends on the player’s current form and the skill he shows in the nets.
Although the New Zealand team is in a better position to face the fast bowlers, they do not feel themselves in that comfortable position against spinners. In such a situation, it can be a better option for Team India to field both the spinners. Talking about the fast bowlers, it is certain that Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Shami are certain to play while there is a choice between Ishant Sharma and Mohammad Siraj, if team management plays with three fast bowlers.
But I will go with Ishant Sharma in both options as he has vast experience of 100 tests. That experience can prove to be very useful for Team India, but if Team India goes with four fast bowlers, then Siraj can get a place in the team. Of course, this decision lengthens India›s tail. Shardul is definitely a substitute who can bat well but I think he doesn›t find a place in the team because he is a bit slow compared to other fast bowlers.
In the case of playing four fast bowlers, the team will have to go with only one spinner. In such a situation, R. Ashwin would be a better option as there are many left-handed batsmen on the New Zealand side and secondly, he can bat as well. Their being in form also goes in their favor but in dry conditions I believe both of them will play. If a fast bowler is unfit, the team would prefer to play Umesh Yadav instead of Shardul.
As far as opening the innings is concerned, Shubman Gill is a better option with Rohit Sharma as the second opener. He is a constant part of the team. He has shown his rhythm in the practice match. The rest of the team management can gauge the good pace of the players in the nets.
The writer is Virat Kohli›s coach and Dronacharya Awardee.
