ICC World Cup 2019 | BCCI selectors were given SWOT analysis report of probables

The MSK Prasad-headed selection committee finally announced the 15-man Indian squad for the upcoming World Cup on Monday. A couple of picks, including Dinesh Karthik’s selection ahead of Rishabh Pant, drew attention as well as criticism from the fans. Going by the form and numbers, Pant might pip Karthik in the race, but a deep analysis might say a different story. 

Traditionally, the selectors were given raw numbers like matches, runs, average, wickets, etc, which might not represent the actual calibre of a player. But for the first time, they were given a SWOT (Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis of the World Cup probables and opposition teams run since the 2017 Champions Trophy prior to the World Cup squad meeting on Monday, reported PTI. 

The five-member selection committee was briefed for a three-and-a-half hour before the meeting to throw some light on players’ performances and how well they can perform in English conditions.

India’s data analyst CKM Dhananjay prepared the SWOT analysis in a data analysis software and presented to the BCCI selection committee before the meeting. Dinesh Karthik’s scoring zone in the mid overs and Pant’s prowess in the death were few highlights of the stats provided by Dhananjay. 

“This time, it was decided that there would be a tweak in the system,” a BCCI official was quoted by PTI.

“On Sunday, a three-and-half hour presentation was provided with processed data. In fact, this could be done before every major selection meeting,” he added.

The PTI report also went on to state that Kedar Jadhav’s strike-rate during a given window or the surfaces or areas where the formidable top three have found it difficult to negotiate. The wrist-spinners and left-arm orthodox tweakers' run were also discussed.   

“Things like how England or New Zealand have fared against our wrist spinners or how Australia has negotiated our orthodox left-arm spinners during a particular phase of play was also shown to the selectors,” the official said.