IND vs AFG World Cup 2023: Why is R Ashwin not playing?

In the much-anticipated clash between India and Afghanistan in the ongoing Cricket World Cup 2023, one notable absence from the Indian playing XI is experienced spinner R Ashwin. The decision to bench Ashwin and instead opt for Shardul Thakur hints at the strategic considerations and assessment of the pitch and conditions.

Why is R Ashwin not playing today’s IND vs AFG World Cup 2023 match?

The choice to select Shardul Thakur over Ashwin suggests that the Indian team management has analyzed the pitch conditions, which seem to be flat and favorable for batsmen, with short boundaries that could potentially lead to a high-scoring game. Additionally, the absence of apparent assistance for spin bowlers on this particular pitch might have influenced the decision.

Shardul Thakur, known for his seam bowling and ability to make breakthroughs, could be seen as a better fit for these conditions, where the focus may lean towards pace and variations to disrupt the batsmen’s rhythm. His skills in the death overs and the ability to contribute with the bat might have tilted the scales in his favor for this crucial encounter.

On the other hand, R Ashwin, a seasoned off-spinner with a plethora of experience and skills to exploit spinning tracks, might have been held back due to the pitch conditions not favoring spinners. The team management’s tactical move underlines the adaptability and flexibility that modern-day cricket demands, with selections tailored to suit the specific demands of each game and venue.

It remains to be seen how this decision unfolds and influences the outcome of the crucial encounter between India and Afghanistan in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

India Playing XI

Rohit Sharma(c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul(wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Afghanistan Playing XI

Rahmanullah Gurbaz(wk), Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi(c), Najibullah Zadran, Mohammad Nabi, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi