IND vs AUS: Zaheer Khan Urges Team India To Be Aggressive, Says "Shami, Bumrah, And Siraj Are Going To Form A Very Formidable Attack"
Published - 08 Oct 2023, 06:20 PM
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Former pacer Zaheer Khan believes that the Indian pacers should adopt an aggressive approach in the ICC ODI World Cup 2023. Zaheer Khan said that Mohammed Shami, Jasrpit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj would form a formidable and aggressive bowling attack.
The Rohit Sharma-led team is currently taking on the Pat Cummins-led team in their first match of the ongoing marquee tournament. The high-voltage match between two teams is scheduled to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, October 8.
You Have To Take Wickets To Set The Tone – Zaheer Khan
In a conversation with India Today, Zaheer Khan hoped that the fast-bowling trio of Shami, Bumrah, and Siraj should be part of the Indian team’s playing XI.
“I’ve been saying that Shami, Bumrah, and Siraj are going to form a very formidable attack if you want to be aggressive. So there are opponents that you will play against, and you have to take wickets to set the tone. And I think if you want to be aggressive as a tactical move, then this attack should be there,” Zaheer told India Today.
India opted for Shardul Thakur ahead of Mohammed Shami to add more batting depth to their squad. The team management can make a tactical call on the third seamer role, considering the conditions. Hardik Pandya will provide an extra-pace bowling option.
Hope The Flexibility Is There – Zaheer Khan
The former Indian pacer emphasized the need for India to be flexible with their playing XI according to the conditions as the tournament progresses.
“I’ve been saying that you can’t be prisoners of your own thoughts. You’ve got to be a little flexible in terms of tactically staying ahead of certain opposition teams. And that is something which I’m waiting to see that I hope that flexibility is there,” Zaheer added.
Zaheer Khan praised Jasprit Bumrah’s recent performances, noting that he is getting better with his bowling since his comeback. He said, “Bumrah has not been around for a while, so yeah, he has taken the opportunity with both hands and it’s great to see. He has produced a lot of good performances and just he’s getting better and better.”
