'India will be concerned': Ex-cricketer reasons Shardul Thakur's inclusion in Asia Cup

If there is any clear takeaway from the Asia Cup 2023 squad announcement, that took place earlier in the week on Monday, then it will be: emphasis has been given on how to deepen the batting order. With the inclusion of Axar Patel, and Shardul Thakur, Team India may have the batting arsenal till number 8, which might prove to be crucial in case a collapse ensues. A foremost cricket expert has also laid comments on the topic and hints the addition of Thakur is vital.

3 things you need to know

• Asia Cup squad has been announced 
• KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer have been added to the squad
• The continental tournament will start on August 30, 2023

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Sanjay Manjrekar gives his say on selection of Shardul Thakur

Sanjay Manjrekar, who never lets a pressing topic go off the hook, has paid heed to what could be the bowling attack of India in the upcoming Asia Cup 2023. The continental tournament is about to start in a few days and thus the wanderings on what could be the ideal playing XI for Team India, are prevalent in the cricketing circuit. Manjrekar has laid in his view and during a Star Sports show has said that India would likely start with 4 fast bowlers.

Bumrah as the spearhead, will be joined by Siraj and Shami, on top of that Shardul Thakur will also be added to the playing XI, according to Manjrekar. The former India cricketer thinks that Shardul's selection has more to do with the batting prowess he carries.

“Currently, obviously Bumrah No. 1. In white-ball cricket, Siraj No. 2. Then you have got Shami and Shardul. So, if you have got a flat belter, expect your seam attack to be something like that,” he replied.
Elaborating on Thakur, Manjrekar added:

“I see Shardul coming in because India will always be concerned about the batting depth. I see that as the pecking order.”

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Asia Cup 2023: 6-team affair

Asia Cup 2023 is scheduled to begin on August 30, 2023. It is a 6-nation tournament, which will commence and culminate in a fortnight. Team India will start its campaign on September 2, 2023 against arch-rivals Pakistan. The final of the tournament will take place on September 17, 2023.