The one-day international (ODI) series between India and Australia is presently tied at 1-1. The final match between the two teams is taking place at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The Indian cricket team made no changes to their playing 11 following their 10-wicket loss in the second ODI in Visakhapatnam, where they were dismissed for 117 runs.
There had been some speculation about Umran Malik’s participation in the series’ final ODI, but India chose to stick with their combination of Mohammad Shami and Siraj, along with Hardik Pandya. Earlier this week, my Indian cricket team coach, Ravi Shastri, spoke in depth about Umran Malik’s position in the lineup and advised Rahul Dravid and the team management on how to handle him.
During a news conference on the sidelines of the Legends League cricket, Shastri stated, “I would want him to be part of the setup.” You should also keep an eye on how he’s progressing. The team’s administration would be keeping an eye on things. There is also a period when the youngster should be tested across formats. Mohammed Siraj is a prime illustration. It was the same for him; once he was given the chance and exposure, he became almost a certainty across all forms.
“You’ve got to save him, you’ve got to save Shami,” he added. Agar teeno format ye khelenge Toh gadbad hogi . Give Umran a chance in formats where Shami and Siraj do not compete. Everyone needs to be prepared. You’re preparing everyone. For example, Bumrah is currently ill; you have backups. That is extremely essential. “He’ll always be a factor.”
