Changes in the playing XI will be made, if needed: India fielding coach R Sridhar
The much-awaited ICC World Test Championship final between India and New Zealand got off to a disappointing start, with Day 1 washing out without a ball being bowled. Even the toss couldn’t take place at the Ageas Bowl in Southampton, all thanks to the persistent rain. With an entire day’s play being called off, there might be some changes in the initial strategies and plans of both camps.
Notably, Team India had announced their playing XI a day prior to the summit clash. They named five specialist batsmen, two spinners and three pacers in their line-up. However, the toss is still yet to be done, and many experts believe that India might rethink their combination considering the overcast conditions and moisture in the track. Speaking of the same, India’s fielding coach R Sridhar said that the XI has been chosen regardless of the conditions.
It’s the eleven which can play and perform on any given surface: R Sridhar
However, he also didn’t rule out the entire possibility of changes, saying a decision can be made at the time of the toss. “The eleven that has been announced is eleven that takes conditions out of the equation. I think it’s the eleven which can play and perform on any given surface and any given weather conditions,” Sridhar told the media after the opening day wash-out. “Having said that, the toss is not yet over. So, if needed, a decision will be taken at the time of toss,” he added.
Sridhar’s remarks suggest that the team management is pretty clear about their combination. However, fielding two spinners in the typical English weather isn’t a popular choice. Hence, it would be interesting to see what happens at the toss.
Meanwhile, both India and New Zealand have been phenomenal in the inaugural WTC cycle and would be raring to clinch the prestigious title. The Kiwis indeed have some odds in their favour as the conditions in England, and New Zealand are pretty similar. Moreover, they recently defeated hosts England 1-0 in a Test series. However, one must not forget India’s knack for defying the odds. Meanwhile, better weather is expected on Day 2, but fans would still be keeping their fingers crossed.
