Former Indian cricketer picks India’s playing XI for the Asia Cup 2023: Leaves out Suryakumar Yadav

The Indian cricket landscape recently buzzed with news of the 17-member squad set to represent the nation in the Asia Cup 2023. As excitement mounts, cricket analysts, former players, and fans have begun crafting their ideal playing XIs for India. Among these voices is renowned commentator and former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar.

Manjrekar, esteemed for his cricketing insights, revealed his favored India XI for the forthcoming Asia Cup in a discussion with ESPNcricinfo.

In the spin department, Manjrekar endorsed the experienced Ravindra Jadeja and the promising Kuldeep Yadav. His envisioned batting lineup unfolds with Shubman Gill partnering with seasoned campaigner Rohit Sharma at the top. A notable twist sees Manjrekar suggesting KL Rahul for the wicketkeeper-batter position.

“My pace trio would consist of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami. Hardik Pandya would complete the quartet as the fourth seamer. My spin arsenal would feature Jadeja and Kuldeep. Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma would open the innings. Virat Kohli takes the crucial No. 3 spot, and KL Rahul plays as the keeper,” stated Sanjay Manjrekar on ESPNCricinfo.

Recognizing the need for left-handed balance, Manjrekar observed, “India faces the challenge of accommodating a left-hander like Tilak Varma among the predominantly right-handed top seven (six) batters.”

With the Asia Cup 2023 on the horizon, discussions and forecasts about team compositions have reached a fervent pitch. The imminent tournament promises riveting clashes among six strong teams, all contending for the prestigious title. India, boasting the most successful history in the Asia Cup, aims to secure an unprecedented eighth championship.

Sanjay Manjrekar’s envisioned India playing XI for the Asia Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer/ Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj.