ICC World Cup 2019: Harbhajan Singh Backs Vijay Shankar Ahead Of Rishabh Pant

Veteran India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh has backed all-rounder Vijay Shankar ahead of Rishabh Pant for the game against Afghanistan on June 22 at Southampton. The Men in Blues are currently at the fourth spot with seven points from four matches. They will hope to secure two crucial points and take one step closer to the semifinals.

Harbhajan backs Shankar for Afghanistan match

India will have to make a forced a change from their game against Pakistan. Bhuvneshwar Kumar will be out of action due to a hamstring pull he sustained in the high-voltage match. The fast bowler left the field immediately and didn’t return the ground as Vijay Shankar completed his over. Mohammed Shami, who has been in terrific form leading to the World Cup, will slot in the playing XI against the minnows Afghans.

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Meanwhile, recent reports suggest that Rishabh Pant might come in place of Vijay Shankar. But Harbhajan Singh has backed Shankar saying that India should not tinker with their winning combination barring only one forced change. The Tamil Nadu picked up a blow during the practice session but has recovered well in time and will be available for selection for the game on Saturday. Harbhajan added that Shankar did well in the match against Pakistan and should retain his place in the playing XI.

“I will stick to the same combination. Obviously, Shami will come in for Bhuvi but apart from one, I don’t see anyone else coming in and disturbing your combination,” Harbhajan told India Today.

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“Most definitely (Vijay Shankar ahead of Rishabh Pant). He was your first-choice. He has done well in the previous game against Pakistan. You can’t let someone else come and take his place just because he came into the team,” he added.

In conclusion, Harbhajan Singh revealed that India have the firepower in their ranks to cross 400+ totals, but it won’t be possible in Southampton as the wicket will offer something for the bowlers.