With India set to play the ICC Champions Trophy final four match against New Zealand in their final group-stage game workload management for players would ideally be dealt with on Friday. Both sides are already over the hill, this is not at all high risk India match. Mohammed Shami resting would help him in relaxing and be available fresh against the world class high-pressure knockout games, as his experience and pace is going to be very crucial. Arshdeep Singh can get some game time in place of Singh and regain his confidence/rhythm. The tactical move would not only ensure Shami is at full fitness, but also pad India’s wicket strength for the semis.
Resting Shami And Giving Arshdeep A Chance: A Tactical Move For India
Mohammed Shami has been one of the standouts for India in this group, taking a superb 5 for 29 off his four overs against Bangladesh and showing he is one of the finest white-ball bowlers Indian have. But India has not much to lose with New Zealand and thus resting Shami for the upcoming knock out stages can be considered as a wise move. But India will prefer to give a shot to Arshdeep Singh rather then Mohammed Siraj, who got the berth after not playing in the tournament till date. The match is a perfect day to check if Arshdeep is fit and how good his chances of playing in big series.
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Exploring Other Bowling Options For Balance
India not only has Arshdeep as an extra spinner but also can run an experiment with an extra spinner by bringing down pacer. Given that Harshit Rana and Hardik Pandya were already covering pace needs, the skipper could include Varun Chakravarthy to add steel to the spin department. His inclusion will add variety and back up in-dugouts to India’s spin-based approach. Shami have been bowling at 100% since the start of the tournament and though he has found his stride again, if a break before semis is given then that will help him to stay fresh and also fully fit for the must win knock out matches. But if team think that more match practise will keep him on the same level, they might still play him against New Zealand.
