Avesh Khan has been given another opportunity to prove himself as he returns to the Indian T20I squad for the upcoming away series against West Indies.
His last appearance in a T20I match for India was on August 31, 2022, against Hong Kong in the Asia Cup group stage. With 15 T20Is under his belt, Khan has taken 13 wickets at an economy rate of 9.11 runs per over.
However, his performances in the shortest format have been inconsistent, and he had a disappointing IPL season with the Lucknow Super Giants.
Despite his struggles, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has decided to recall Avesh Khan for the West Indies T20Is, believing that he deserves another chance. Let’s delve into the three reasons why this decision was the right move.
1. The Health Concern
Firstly, Avesh Khan lost his place in the Indian T20I team due to illness. He was initially included in the playing XI for the Asia Cup match against Hong Kong but fell sick, leading to his exclusion from the subsequent match against Pakistan.
Unfortunately, his illness persisted, and he had to sit out the remainder of the Asia Cup. Although he did participate in the home ODI series against South Africa in October 2022, he was not considered for any T20I series.
Now, Khan has finally made his return to the T20I squad, presenting him with a fair chance to prove himself in the shortest format during the five-match series against West Indies.
2. Plans For India’s Asian Games Participation
Secondly, Avesh Khan has the potential to be a key player for India in the Asian Games. The BCCI has confirmed that the Indian men’s cricket team will participate in the Asian Games, which will take place from September 23 to October 8 in Hangzhou, China. The format of the cricket tournament in the Asian Games will be T20Is.
With the Asia Cup and Cricket World Cup scheduled for September and October, respectively, the BCCI intends to keep the main players of the ODI team away from the Asian Games.
This presents an opportunity for Khan to play a crucial role for India. Given his understanding of T20 cricket, if he gets sufficient chances in the format before the mega event, he can showcase his skills during the men’s cricket event in Hangzhou.
3. Future Potentials
Lastly, Avesh Khan has the potential to become a long-term asset for India in T20Is. The Indian T20I team requires fast bowlers who can consistently reach speeds of around 140 kmph.
Khan has shown that he can touch that mark when in rhythm and possesses the ability to take wickets in the slog overs.
In a crucial T20I match against South Africa last year, Khan delivered a match-winning spell of 4/18 in Rajkot.
With proper grooming and support, the 26-year-old fast bowler has the potential to establish himself as a valuable asset for India in T20Is in the long run.
In conclusion, Avesh Khan’s recall to the Indian T20I squad for the West Indies series was a justified decision for several reasons.
His previous absence from the team due to illness, his potential contribution in the upcoming Asian Games, and his ability to become a long-term asset for India in T20Is make him a worthy candidate for another opportunity.
The Indian team management and BCCI have recognized these factors and are providing Khan with the chance to prove his worth in the shortest format of the game.
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