India XI: Optimal Squad for ICC WC 2019

The middle order pandemonium

Kedar Jadhav and Ambati Rayudu have a stiff test ahead

This is where the headache begins to worsen for India. With so many talented players vying for just 2 spots, none of them could be properly tested despite having long preparatory time. With a little bit of misfortune and some lack of foresight, this is the part puzzle where India is missing out on the story.

Before Hardik Pandya comes out and sets everything on fire, these 2 spots are to be filled from a roster consisting Kedar Jadhav, Ambati Rayudu, Dinesh Karthik(though he seems to be a bit out of favour at the moment), Rishabh Pant, Vijay Shankar and Dhoni depending upon who is batting at 3.

To be honest, if Krunal Pandya makes it to the squad, I will be pretty surprised unless he acts as an injury cover to someone. My suggestion would be to show confidence in the players tested. Fill up the 5th position with Ambati Rayudu followed by Kedar Jadhav coming in at 6 might be the sensible way to go unless you are in the position or mood to gamble.

Coming to Dinesh Karthik, in the few instances, when the entire batting line up was failing, he could not rise up to the occasion and prove his ability. Instead, he followed suit and was early in walking back to the pavilion much like his teammates. Maybe, even a stray case of taking the responsibility could have vouched for his inclusion but there isn't any.

What remains of Rishabh Pant and Vijay Shankar, I believe they are talented but too inexperienced to handle such a big event like the World Cup yet.