Rahul Dravid Drops Massive Hint On India's Playing XI vs Netherlands
Published - 11 Nov 2023, 04:38 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:22 AM
Head Coach Rahul Dravid hinted that India might stick to the same playing combination against the Netherlands in the ICC World Cup 2023. Rahul Dravid suggested they wouldn’t change their lineup right before the crucial semi-final game in the marquee tournament.
The Rohit Sharma-led team was the first to secure their berth in the ongoing World Cup. The home team has secured eight victories so far. They will take on the Netherlands in their final league match at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Sunday, November 12.
We Are Pretty Well Rested – Rahul Dravid
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Rahul Dravid mentioned that a six-day break helped the team’s well-rested state for the upcoming game. He highlighted the importance of focusing on the best XI for the crucial semi-final clash.
“We have had six days off since the last game. We are pretty well rested. The guys are in good shape. We have six days off and just one game before the semi-final, boys are rested, so… that is all I will say,” Dravid said.
“We are at the pointy end of the tournament now. Right now it is about focusing on the guys who you think will be in the playing XI. That is the best possible place mentally and physically ahead of the semi-final and hopefully the final if we earn it,” Dravid further added.
Now Is The Time For Narrow Focus – Rahul Dravid
Rahul Dravid was asked about Prasidh Krishna’s inclusion in the side to ensure readiness in case of a last-minute change before the semi-finals. He emphasized the need to concentrate on the best XI presently, reserving broader considerations for later.
“There are times of larger focus thinking and there are times for narrow focused thinking and now is the time for narrow focus thinking if everyone is fit,” Dravid concluded.
Prasidh Krishna was named as a replacement player for all-rounder Hardik Pandya, who was ruled out of the prestigious tournament due to an injury sustained against Bangladesh. However, Prasidh Krishna did not have an opportunity to play in any of the matches.
