Ahead of the T20 series between India and New Zealand, a major update has emerged regarding Team India’s Playing XI. There was much discussion about who would replace the injured Tilak Varma.
Many believed that Shreyas Iyer would get the opportunity, but that didn’t happen. Team India captain Suryakumar Yadav has clarified that Ishan Kishan will be included in the Playing XI in place of Tilak Varma.
Tilak Varma is usually considered a permanent fixture in the team’s batting lineup at number three, but due to abdominal surgery, he is out of the first three matches. This is why the team management had to decide on his replacement.
Why Ishan Kishan was given priority
Suryakumar Yadav clearly explained the reason for this decision in the press conference.
He said, “Ishan will bat at number 3 because he is a part of our T20 World Cup team and he was picked in the squad first so it’s our responsibility to give him a chance.”
The captain also mentioned that Ishan Kishan is a left-hander, like Tilak Varma, making him a like-for-like replacement.
He also highlighted Ishan’s hard work, saying, “He hasn’t played for India for the past one and a half years and in the meantime consistently performed in domestic cricket.”
Surya also clarified the situation regarding Shreyas Iyer. He explained that Shreyas is being considered as a number five batsman in this series, not for the number three position.
Focus on team combination before the World Cup
Suryakumar Yadav further added, “Since he (Ishan) has been picked for the World T20, he deserves to play ahead (of Shreyas). Had it been a question of batting slots Nos 4 or 5, it would have been a different question altogether. Unfortunately, Tilak isn’t there so Ishan is our best bet.”
He also showed flexibility regarding his own batting position and said, “I have batted at both positions for India. My stats at No. 4 are slightly better although they are good at No. 3 also. But then we are flexible with that.” Speaking about his current form, Surya honestly admitted, “I’ve been out of runs. But I can’t change my identity. If the performance comes, I’ll take it, if it doesn’t, it’s back to the drawing board.”
The captain concluded by emphasizing the importance of the team, saying, “This is a team sport and my first responsibility is to ensure that my team does well.”
The T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, will begin on February 7th, and this series is considered a crucial part of Team India’s preparations.
