Sarandeep Singh Suggests Testing Bench Strength in 3rd T20I Against Ireland

As India holds an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series against Ireland, former Indian offspinner and selector, Sarandeep Singh, has suggested that the visiting team should consider modifying their playing lineup for the final match at the Malahide Cricket Club, Dublin, on Wednesday.

Singh recommends that the Indian team management could opt to introduce uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma and young pacer Avesh Khan for the upcoming T20I against Ireland.

“Absolutely, it should definitely happen, especially after a victory when you have the flexibility to make changes. I am particularly keen to see Avesh Khan in action. He is a talented fast bowler who has consistently performed well in domestic cricket and the IPL,” Singh stated in a conversation with Jio Cinema.

“Although we couldn’t offer him an opportunity during the West Indies series due to the fluctuating nature of the matches, we should certainly provide him a chance in this game. Additionally, Jitesh Sharma should also be given an opportunity,” he added.

However, another expert from JioCinema, Abhishek Nayar, holds a different viewpoint. He believes that the winning combination should remain unchanged and that the players who have been given the chance to play should continue to do so.

“I would prefer not to make any changes. It’s a brief tour, comprising only these T20Is. Hence, it’s crucial to allow the players who have been given opportunities to maintain their presence on the field,” Nayar emphasized.

Tilak Varma, a promising young batter who is set to participate in the Asia Cup, has faced challenges in the T20I series against Ireland, scoring just one run across two innings. Nayar advises Varma to maintain his approach and stay consistent.

“I believe Tilak Varma was a bit unlucky in the first T20I where he got dismissed down the leg side. That kind of ball usually results in a boundary for most batsmen. In the second T20I, he played his signature shot that earned him a six on his debut in the West Indies.

“I think he has faced some unfortunate circumstances. He should continue adhering to his game plans and maintain his current approach. His resilience has been evident in the IPL. Every time he had a tough outing, he returned more determined,” Nayar stated.

Singh, however, provides a different perspective: “Tilak Varma should adopt a simple strategy: initially assess the wicket’s behavior. When he made his debut in the West Indies, the conditions were somewhat comparable to those in India, and the wicket responded in a similar manner. He was able to play his shots accordingly.

“However, in Ireland, the conditions are different. The wicket is harder, there’s a grassy covering, moisture is present, and overcast conditions prevail. The ball moves more, and there’s increased bounce. So, he should take a bit more time, face around 15-16 balls, and then gradually unleash his shots.”