But Abhishek Sharma’s performance in Zimbabwe will continue to be the focus of selection
CHENNAI: Veteran Ravindra Jadeja has secured the all-round spin bowling spot in the I
However, Jadeja has been targeted for a key position in the XI as he bows out of the T20 national team after winning the World Cup.
India’s long-standing tradition throughout the XI is to opt for all-round spin bowling. With Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and new blocker Abhishek Sharma, this could mean they have to contend with them.
In some cases, think tanks may decide to use two devices, as was the case at the end of the T20 World Cup in the Caribbean.
Axar is likely to be the first choice having stood out in key moments of the tournament, but Washington threatened that claim with his recent Man of the Series performance in five games in Zimbabwe.
The 24-year-old Washington made his T20I debut about seven years ago but has failed to fully cement his place in the team, becoming the joint-highest wicket-taker alongside Mukesh Kumar in eight scalps. The economic interest rate is 5.17.
Washington acknowledged that it still faces a bitter battle for the top spot. “I have to keep doing what I’m good at and show what I’m capable of.
I have to do my job really well. “I have to get better in all aspects of the game and everything will come together.” Washington said after his man-of-the-match performance in the third T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare.
Washington added: “I have to give 100 percent every day. I never compromised on that. It is important to be present and perform well on a regular basis. I’m confident too. It has.”
Washington and Abhishek may not be the same players, but the latter can be a direct rival of the former. Abhishek, who tops the team’s batting list, has taken two wickets in all five matches with his left-arm spin.
The 23-year-old Abhishek also showcased his IPL bowling skills in the second qualifier between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals in Chennai in May.
“Vashi (Washington) is a very consistent player with his line and size. Abhishek has little variety,” Sunrisers coach Jay Harish, who has been watching both of them closely, told TOI.
Asked if Washington and Abhishek would compete for a place in the Indian team, Harjesh said: “Yes, Abhishek is an open batsman and more destructive than a T20 eagle. His flow with the bat is great.
A big result against Team India.” Both new spinners and bowlers. “
