Harbhajan Singh Questions Washington Sundar And Ravichandran Ashwin's Inclusion In India's Squad For ODI Series Against Australia

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh shared his thoughts on Washington Sundar and Ravichandran Ashwin’s inclusion for the ODI series against Australia. Harbhajan Singh emphasized that the selectors attempted to rectify their mistake of not having an off-spinner in the provisional World Cup squad.

On Monday, September 18, chief selector Ajit Agarkar announced two separate squads for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia at home. Washington Sundar, who was part of the playing XI in the Asia Cup final, retained his place, while Ravichandran Ashwin made his comeback in the ODI format.

India Are Searching For Off-Spinners – Harbhajan Singh

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Harbhajan Singh questioned the adjustments and changes made by the team management, which are beyond his understanding.

“First Washington Sundar, who wasn’t in the original Asia Cup squad, was called there. After that, a second player has been added for this series and that is R Ashwin. So somewhere or the other Team India are searching for off-spinners,” Harbhajan said.

“They have probably realized their mistake that they haven’t picked an off-spinner in the team and that our bowlers can get into trouble if a lot of left-handers come in front of them. Why unnecessarily go through all this? It is beyond my understanding or they are going to make another mistake to rectify their earlier mistake.”

The Men in Blue will take on the Pat Cummins-led team in the first ODI of the three-match series in Mohali on Friday, September 22. The series will serve as ideal preparation for the two teams ahead of the ODI World Cup 2023.

Will Never Pick Three Spinners – Harbhajan Singh

Harbhajan Singh believes that neither Washington Sundar nor Ravichandran Ashwin is likely to secure a place in India’s playing XI for the World Cup. He emphasized that Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav would be preferred first-choice spinners.

“You will never pick three spinners in the team. You will choose two at the most. Ravindra Jadeja is definitely going to play, no matter how many left-handers are there in front of you, and the other spinner will be Kuldeep Yadav. No one can take his place as of now.”