Lagatar24 Desk
Dubai: Former Indian all-rounder Suresh Raina has expressed disappointment over the exclusion of Suryakumar Yadav from India’s squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy. Speaking during the Star Sports Press Room, Raina said Suryakumar could have been the team’s ‘X-factor’ in Dubai, where the tournament will be held.
Suryakumar and Mohammed Siraj are among six players from the 2023 ODI World Cup squad who missed out on selection. Others include Prasidh Krishna, Shardul Thakur, and Ishan Kishan, while Ravichandran Ashwin has retired.
Raina on Suryakumar Yadav’s Role
Raina described Suryakumar as a player who can “dominate the opposition” and score quickly at any stage of the game.
“Surya was an integral part of the World Cup squad. He’s a 360-degree player who can score at 9 runs per over. His absence leaves the responsibility on the top three, who are currently not in form,” Raina remarked.
Siraj’s Exclusion and Potential Return
Raina also questioned the omission of Mohammed Siraj, especially with uncertainty surrounding Jasprit Bumrah’s fitness and Mohammed Shami’s recent return from injury.
“Siraj was in great form in Australia and can still be included in the squad if Bumrah isn’t fully fit. While Harshit Rana has done well, Siraj remains a better option for death overs,” Raina added.
Gill as Vice-Captain
Lauding the decision to make Shubman Gill the vice-captain, Raina called it a forward-thinking move.
“Gill is the next superstar of Indian cricket. Rohit Sharma knows how to mentor youngsters and understands the value Shubman brings to the team,” Raina said.
Bowling Strategy for Dubai Pitches
With Dubai’s slow and turning wickets, Raina emphasized the importance of Kuldeep Yadav and Hardik Pandya in the bowling department. However, he expressed concern over the lack of match practice for Shami and Bumrah’s fitness.
“The key will be selecting the right combination of 11 players from the 15-man squad,” he noted.
Rishabh Pant as Wicketkeeper
Backing Rishabh Pant as the first-choice wicketkeeper over KL Rahul, Raina said:
“Pant’s keeping has improved, but he needs to play more responsibly in 50-over games. Spending 40-50 balls at the crease can make him a game-changer.”
India’s Champions Trophy History
India has won the Champions Trophy twice—jointly with Sri Lanka in 2002 and outright in 2013 under MS Dhoni. Raina expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma’s leadership, saying:
“Rohit has the capacity and the team to go all the way, but the combination will be critical.”
