WTC final: Sunil Gavaskar wants Ashwin and Jadeja in the playing XI

Veteran Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar claims that R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja should play in the WTC final against New Zealand. The much-awaited event of the year will get underway at the Rose Bowl in Southampton from Friday, June 18. Sunil Gavaskar, who is presently in Southampton as part of the commentary team for the final, stated the weather has been scorching. Thus, the conditions might favor the spinners in the summit clash. Several other cricket experts said that team India should play an extra pacer due to the overcast conditions anticipated in Southampton. However, Sunil Gavaskar believes that including both Ashwin and Jadeja in the playing XI will add balance to the side.

Both Ashwin and Jadeja can also be handy with the bat down the order: Sunil Gavaskar

Ravi Ashwin is presently the third on the list of the leading wicket-taker in the World Test Championship. In the 13 matches he has played so far, Ashwin has picked up 67 wickets. Now, the spinner needs four more wickets to reach the top.

On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja hasn't featured in the Test series against England as he was recovering from an injury. Despite that, the all-rounder has grabbed 28 wickets from 10 games in the World Test Championship. Many cricket experts have reckoned that Ravindra Jadeja is India's trump card in the final against NZ. They also stated that the Indian all-rounder is a triple-dimensional player due to his batting, bowling, and fielding skills.

Both Ashwin and Jadeja are included in India's 15-man squad for the final against New Zealand. Sunil Gavaskar feels playing both the all-rounders can also be handy with the bat down the order. Thus, the duo will keep India in good stead against the New Zealand team as they have a formidable pace unit. The Indian team management is reportedly keen on playing Mohammed Siraj in the WTC final based on his current form. Siraj was the highest wicket-getter for team India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2020-21. The youngster has returned with two wickets in the recently-concluded intra-squad practice match. If Siraj gets the nod, it will be interesting to see who will be the third pacer in the team. Thus, it remains to be seen what team combination will India field in the final clash against Kane Williamson and the team.

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