India’s team combination for the semi-final is baffling, really baffling

Coming to the high-voltage encounter against New Zealand, India opted to go with Dinesh Karthik’s experience in the middle-order as Kedar Jadhav continued to warm the bench, while Ravindra Jadeja and Bhuvneshwar Kumar retained their place. Kuldeep Yadav made way for Yuzvendra Chahal whereas Mohammmed Shami continued to carry drinks despite being prolific with the ball. 

Let’s break this down a bit. Kedar’s ouster meant India didn’t have the cushion of an effective sixth bowler, let alone the stability he brings in the middle-order. Though he hasn’t bowled as many overs in the tournament so far, the psychological advantage is always there. His only failure with the bat came against West Indies and the lack of intent he showed in the death overs against England raised questions too. Suddenly, Kedar’s spot came under scrutiny and was eventually axed in the game against Bangladesh.

Shami leaked runs but he made up for it by bagging wickets in heap and his tally of 14 scalps in four games is a testament to it. More importantly, he provides the much-needed wicket taking option and has looked in good rhythm of late. Though Bhuvneshwar’s inclusion in the playing XI could be to strengthen the tail, there is no logical explanation behind Shami’s omission. Also, India cannot afford to have both Jadeja and Bhuvneshwar at the same time that just takes away the wicket taking option. 

India’s bowling did reasonably well in this encounter but there was a point when India needed wickets, which was difficult to come by. If India continue this chop and change strategy, it will only create a sense of insecurity in the minds of few players and further hamper their performance. India may or may not pull this one off, but the baffling selection strategy cannot be overlooked. Both Shami and Kedar did nothing wrong to be replaced during the business end of the tournament, and the axing of the duo along with Kuldeep at the same time hardly makes sense.