Former India cricketer Pragyan Ojha has claimed that Shikhar Dhawan is a strong contender to be a part of the Indian team for the 2023 ODI World Cup. The swashbuckling opener is currently captaining the Men in Blue in their ongoing ODI series against West Indies.
Dhawan played in three ODI matches against England earlier this month before leading the visitors during their tour to the Caribbean. He has been amongst the runs against West Indies after failing to get going against the Three Lions with Dhawan smashing 97 in the first ODI.
The 36-year-old has worked on his fitness and managed to be a part of the national team in the ODI format. He also has a very good partnership with Rohit Sharma which seems to be the reason why the veteran left-handed batter is a part of the team despite the availability of various options. Pragyan Ojha also feels that Dhawan has managed to claim a spot for himself in the Indian team for the ODI World Cup in 2023.
The Indian spinner recently featured on Glance’s YouTube video where he was seen speaking on Dhawan’s selection for the upcoming world Cup. Pragyan Ojha said, “I am seeing the right signs. When you look at a senior player, you have to see ki unke saath kya kiya jaa raha hai. He’s in the mix [for the 2023 ODI World Cup]”
The former India cricketer went on to add, “When the seniors are not there and he’s just playing one format, toh unko kaptaan bhi banaya gaya hai. He’s the captain, the leader of the pack, and the batting which looked rusty in England is now looking better … he’s trying to get into that space. It is clear that Rohit Sharma wants Shikhar kyunki dono ki sajjedaari bhi itni achchi hai,”
Pragyan Ojha also speaks how Dhawan has the backing for India’s all format captain while speaking about their partnership record. He goes on to claim how the Punjab Kings star’s experience of playing at the biggest stage will be crucial for India at the ICC tournament.
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The Indian spinner said, “They have both done a brilliant job together. I think in world cricket, they are third or fourth, and Rohit Sharma believes that if someone is consistently performing or has done really well over the years, you can’t just discard him. Rohit definitely gives you that cushion, and it’s a good thing, kyunki ICC events ki baat karein toh wahan pe thoda experience zaroor chahiye.”
Dhawan and Sharma have been amongst one of the best opening pairs in ODI history for India. The duo has recorded 5000 runs together for the first wicket in One Day games, becoming only the fourth opening pair in ODI cricket’s history to reach that milestone.
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Smit is a sports writer at Gutshot Magazine. After completing his Bachelor’s in Mass Media, and a Master’s degree in Sports Management, this sports fanatic uses articles as a tool to express his opinions. Bring up cricket or football and you will find this usually quiet guy speak for hours! He also co-heads the official supporters club of Chelsea FC in Mumbai, wherein he hosts screenings, football meets and other such events.
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