IND vs PAK: They Don't Need To Be Around If..: Kapil Dev's Remark On KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer's Inclusion In India Squad For Asia Cup

While the Indian cricket fraternity was desperately waiting for KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer’s return to the ODI team ahead of the World Cup, their comeback has now also sparked a huge debate. The reason is the players returning after a long injury layoff and lack of game time.

Both the batsmen have been named in the India squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2023. Shreyas Iyer will be returning to competitive cricket for the first time since injuring his back during the Ahmedabad Test against Australia in March. On the other hand, KL Rahul will be playing a competitive game for the first time since May when he suffered a thigh injury while fielding in IPL 2023.

With no game time under their belt at present, both KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer will have to prove themselves in a big competition like the Asia Cup. And it has not impressed many including former India captain Kapil Dev. The World Cup-winning captain is also worried for the duo but believes that playing in the Asia Cup will give the team management an opportunity to assess the batsmen.

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“Ideally every player should be tested out. The World Cup is so close but you still haven’t given the players a chance? What if they head to the World Cup and then get injured? The entire team will suffer. Here, at least they will get a chance to bat or bowl a little and get some rhythm going,” Kapil Dev said on ABP News.

“Worst case scenario, if the guys get injured again during the World Cup, it will be unfair to the players who will miss out on being part of the squad. The injured players who have returned need to be given a chance. If they are fit, then can play the World Cup. There is no shortage of talent, but if they are not fit, India will have a chance to make changes to the World Cup squad right away,” he added.

Kapil Dev’s advice for Team India:

Speaking further, Kapil Dev urged the Indian team to use the Asia Cup as a platform to prepare for the all-important World Cup. He also stated that none of the players should be picked for the team if ‘there is any sort of question mark’.

“You have a wonderful opportunity to create a team for the World Cup and the Asia Cup is a fine platform. I want these players to go and express themselves. But if there is any sort of question mark, they don’t need to be around. If you do not give them a chance, it will be unfair to not just the players but also the selectors. I am aware that the World Cup is taking place in India but you need to pick the best and fittest team,” said Kapil Dev.