Former India player Mohammed Kaif has expressed his disapproval of the way India approached their tour of the West Indies, particularly in the ODIs, where they experimented with young players and rested key players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Kaif believes that the team’s performance in the Asia Cup should be the basis for judgment rather than the West Indies tour.
He feels that the tour was not significant enough to draw concrete conclusions about the team’s abilities. Despite winning the ODI series against West Indies 2-1, India’s approach of trying out different combinations with non-regular players raised concerns for Kaif.
He suggests that if the team management wanted to give rest to senior players like Kohli and Rohit, they should have sent an entirely new team to the tour, rather than mixing inexperienced players with a few regulars. Kaif believes that such an approach can create confusion and affect the team’s overall performance. Kaif places great importance on having a fully fit and in-form Virat Kohli for the World Cup.
He acknowledges that Kohli had a rough patch but has since regained his form and displayed impressive performances in the IPL and against Pakistan.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were rested for the second and third ODIs against West Indies
Kaif is confident that an in-form Kohli will be a formidable force against any bowler in the tournament. Discussing potential World Cup squad members, Kaif is optimistic about Ishan Kishan’s inclusion.
He praises Kishan’s ability to both keep wickets and score runs, making him a valuable asset in the squad. However, Kaif is uncertain about the inclusion of other players like Sanju Samson and Shreyas Iyer, acknowledging that only two out of the three might make it to the final World Cup squad.
He commends Samson’s recent performances, particularly his quickfire fifty in the third ODI against West Indies, and believes he should be in contention for the World Cup squad.
Kaif suggests that India’s opening combination for the World Cup should consist of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. He considers them a formidable pair that can set the tone for India’s campaign in the tournament. Looking ahead to the World Cup, Kaif believes that India’s real challenge will begin in the semifinals, where they will face stronger opponents like New Zealand, Australia, England, and Pakistan.
He emphasizes the importance of winning the two crucial matches – the semifinal and the final – to lift the World Cup trophy. Kaif expresses his hope that India reaches the semifinals and contends for the ultimate prize, as anything less would be disheartening for the team and fans alike.
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