As the ODI World Cup 2023 approaches, cricket fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the global showdown. The players who recently showcased their skills in IPL 2023 are now back to represent their respective countries in this prestigious tournament. The IPL has long been a significant factor in the selection and evaluation of players for international cricket, and this year is no exception. Despite some players struggling in IPL 2023, they have managed to secure their places in the ODI World Cup 2023 squads. In this article, we will discuss five such underperformers from IPL 2023 who have made it to the World Cup squads.
Rohit Sharma:
Rohit Sharma, the captain of Mumbai Indians, is an essential part of Team India and serves as a reliable opener. Despite his dismal performance in IPL 2023, Rohit Sharma was an automatic choice for the Indian selectors.
In IPL 2023, Rohit scored only 332 runs with just two scores of 50 or more. His batting average of 20.75 was significantly lower than his career average of 29.58. However, his team, Mumbai Indians, managed to reach the playoffs, securing the fourth spot in the table.
One positive aspect of Rohit’s IPL 2023 season was his strike rate, which stood at 132.80, reflecting his aggressive approach to opening the innings. Despite his lackluster IPL performance, Rohit Sharma will play a crucial role in forming a formidable opening partnership with Shubman Gill alongside Virat Kohli in the ODI World Cup 2023. His ability to find the boundary consistently could prove to be a significant asset, especially considering his impressive record of scoring centuries in the previous edition.
Hardik Pandya:
Hardik Pandya entered IPL 2023 as the skipper of Gujarat Titans, having won the trophy as captain in 2022. Despite taking on the role of an anchor and bowling at 140 kmph, his performances in IPL 2023 did not meet expectations.
As a captain, Pandya led the Gujarat Titans to their second consecutive final, narrowly missing the trophy due to Ravindra Jadeja’s last-over heroics. However, Pandya’s individual performance was under scrutiny as he scored only 346 runs and took a mere 3 wickets in the tournament.
Pandya led the Gujarat Titans to their second consecutive final-Baji live
What raised more questions was Pandya’s approach, as he scored these runs at a strike rate (SR) of 136.76, which is below his career SR of 145.86. Despite these challenges, Pandya’s role in the Indian lineup has evolved, and he has been named the vice-captain under Rohit Sharma for the ODI World Cup 2023.
With added responsibility, all eyes will be on how Pandya manages to maintain a high scoring rate as a finisher, occupying the number six slot in the batting order. Furthermore, India’s bowling balance relies heavily on his experienced shoulders, as he consistently contributes more than five overs per match and can deliver deliveries exceeding 140 kmph.
Lockie Ferguson:
Lockie Ferguson, known as one of the fastest bowlers in the current era, has earned a reputation as a match-winner in limited-overs cricket. Playing alongside Trent Boult and Tim Southee for New Zealand, Ferguson has been exceptional with the old ball, especially in the latter stages of the innings.
Lockie Ferguson, known as one of the fastest bowlers in the current era-Baji live
Kolkata Knight Riders acquired Lockie Ferguson for a significant sum of 10 Crores in IPL 2023. However, his impact in the tournament did not justify his hefty price tag. In the three games he played, Ferguson managed to secure just one wicket, with an economy rate exceeding 12. For most of the season, he found himself warming the bench.
Despite his IPL struggles, Ferguson’s role for New Zealand remains critical. In the 50-over format, he will be essential in taking wickets during the middle overs and maintaining economy at the death. The Black Caps will be relying on him to help end their World Cup drought after missing out on the title in the last two editions.
Rinku Singh:
Rinku Singh emerged as a promising talent during IPL 2023, despite a somewhat underwhelming performance. Representing Rajasthan Royals, he showcased his potential as a left-handed batsman.
In IPL 2023, Rinku Singh scored 252 runs in 15 matches, with a highest score of 48. While these numbers may not be staggering, his ability to contribute in crucial moments earned him a spot in the ODI World Cup 2023 squad.
Rinku Singh emerged as a promising talent during IPL 2023-Baji live
Singh’s selection demonstrates the selectors’ faith in his talent and potential to deliver on the global stage. He will look to make a more significant impact in the upcoming World Cup.
Yashasvi Jaiswal:
Another young talent, Yashasvi Jaiswal, made the cut for the ODI World Cup 2023 despite a modest IPL 2023 campaign with Rajasthan Royals.
Jaiswal scored 306 runs in 14 matches during IPL 2023, with a top score of 87. While his performances were not extraordinary, his selection indicates the team’s belief in his abilities as a top-order batsman.
The ODI World Cup provides Jaiswal with an opportunity to prove his worth on the international stage and contribute significantly to the Indian team’s success.
In conclusion, IPL 2023 may not have been a stellar season for these players, but their inclusion in the ODI World Cup 2023 squads highlights the selectors’ confidence in their abilities to perform when it matters most. As the World Cup approaches, cricket enthusiasts can look forward to these players making a strong impact and turning their fortunes around on the global stage.
