Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden believes Yuzvendra Chahal’s omission from India’s squad for the Asia Cup 2023 is a major omission, calling the wrist-spinner a “superb player.”
During a press conference held by Indian chief selector Ajit Agarkar and captain Rohit Sharma to announce the squad for the upcoming tournament, it was revealed that Chahal was left out in favor of Kuldeep Yadav. Hayden acknowledged that the selection committee had a difficult decision to make, considering the talent of both spinners.
“There are some big omissions. Chahal, in particular, that leg-spinner, is such a superb player and (it) must be tough for the selectors because they’ve also got another one in Kuldeep (Yadav)…. he’s a superb player. So, they’ve gone for that as an option,” Hayden said.
When discussing the inclusion of Tilak Varma, Hayden speculated that it could be part of a strategic move, not just for the current World Cup but potentially for the T20 World Cup 2024 as well.
“In the lead-up to World Cups, you’re always going to have some players and we’ve seen the class of Tilak Varma. I think it’s a good strategy in terms of not just this World Cup but even potentially getting into the next World Cup (T20 World Cup 2024) as well,” he said.
Hayden also noted that Varma’s presence in the squad could put pressure on Suryakumar Yadav, who has been struggling to secure the No. 4 position in ODIs.
