IND vs SA: "I Think The Selectors Have Decided..."- Ex-India Wicket-Keeper Saba Karim On Shikhar Dhawan's Chances For 2023 World Cup

Indian Cricket Team had a disappointing 1st ODI match against South Africa where the team was outplayed. India may have lost the match by 9 runs but Proteas were in control of the match. The skipper Shikhar Dhawan will have to make sure that the batters bat deep and form partnerships.

Shikhar has taken the responsibility of leading the team when senior members of the team are not there. The left-handed batter is getting ample game time in the middle. There are concerns regarding his future in ODI Cricket as India already has KL Rahul waiting in the wings.

Saba Karim on Shikhar Dhawan

Saba Karim was seen interacting with India News and was asked about Shikhar Dhawan.  “Shikhar Dhawan’s place in the team has been confirmed. There’s no need to put pressure on him all the time. There will be one or two matches where he won’t score runs. I think the selectors have decided that Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan will be the openers in the next 50-over World Cup,” said Saba Karim.

Conundrum for Management

The management would be well aware of the fact that Shikhar doesn’t have age on his side. The 36-year-old batter has a history of being injury prone and moving with him forward can prove to be risky. At the same time, the team gets a left-hand right-hand combination which disturbs the bowlers a lot.

After the conclusion of the ICC T20 World Cup 2022, the entire focus would shift to the 2023 World Cup. The management should stick to one opener as chopping and changing of openers is not a good option. The Selection Panel & Rahul Dravid would be keenly watching Shikhar Dhawan as a big hundred in the remaining two ODI’s can seal the spot for him.

Also Read: IND vs SA: The Way Shreyas, Samson And Shardul Batted Was Excellent – Shikhar Dhawan After 9-run Loss To South Africa In 1st ODI