ODI World Cup 2023: India's strongest predicted playing XI against Bangladesh

In the 17th showdown of the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, Team India (IND) is all set to clash with Bangladesh (BAN) this Thursday, on October 19, at MCA Stadium, Pune. This eagerly awaited clash promises a thrilling spectacle, pitting two teams with divergent forms against each other. India, the undisputed powerhouse, is relentlessly dominating their adversaries, perched atop the points table with an impeccable record of three consecutive triumphs.

India is currently enjoying a clean bill of health, boasting a squad brimming with fitness and form. Shubman Gill's successful return in the previous clash with Pakistan solidified his place as the opening batter alongside the skipper. While contemplating their lineup, the only conceivable alteration for the Men in Blue would involve resting one of their pacers in favour of the experienced Mohammed Shami. However, as it stands, maintaining the status quo seems to be the prevailing strategy for India.

Here's India’s Predicted XI against Bangladesh:

Openers: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill

Rohit Sharma's performance in the tournament has been nothing short of spectacular. Following a rare duck against Australia, he responded with a scintillating century against Afghanistan and backed it up with a formidable 86 against Pakistan. Given the batting-friendly conditions at MCA Stadium, he’ll surely want his bat do the talking.

Meanwhile, Shubman Gill's triumphant return from dengue saw him display excellent form against Pakistan, where he consistently found the boundary ropes with precision, dispatching the majority of deliveries he faced with authority. He currently stands just five points shy of surpassing Babar Azam and securing the top spot in the ICC ODI batsman rankings. While it's uncertain whether this is on his mind, such an achievement would undoubtedly be a mutually beneficial outcome.

Also Check: Most Runs in ODI World Cup 2023

Middle Order: Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul

Virat Kohli, though in exceptional form, has missed out on converting his starts into monumental scores, which has been his trademark. His partnership with KL Rahul against Australia exuded sheer class. Kohli appears to have embraced a distinct role in the team as a troubleshooter. Notably, he notched up two vital half-centuries in the initial two matches, showcasing his adaptability and value to the squad.

Shreyas Iyer's current form is indeed impressive, although his dismissal against Australia serves as a learning point, highlighting the need to exercise caution when necessary. His remarkable 101-meter six against Afghanistan underscores his capacity to elevate the game in crucial moments. With his adept spin-playing skills, he undoubtedly strengthens the Indian middle order, adding a valuable dimension to the team's batting prowess.

KL Rahul, after his return from injury, has exhibited a remarkable transformation in his gameplay. It's a no-brainer that he will don the gloves and occupy the No.5 spot when India faces Bangladesh. His game-changing performance against Australia under challenging circumstances not only secured victory but also underscored his pivotal role for India in the remainder of the tournament.

Also Check: List of Virat Kohli international & IPL centuries

All-rounders: Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja

Hardik Pandya's contributions with the bat have been limited in the tournament, primarily due to a lack of opportunities. However, he has showcased his bowling prowess by claiming pivotal wickets. His diverse skill set was evident with impressive deliveries like the deceptive off-cutter against Babar Azam during the Asia Cup and an unplayable delivery that veered away from Imam-Ul-Haq in the World Cup. Pandya possesses a treasure trove of exceptional deliveries in his repertoire.

Ravindra Jadeja, the designated second all-rounder in the squad, has been a standout performer with the ball in the competition. Although his batting contributions have been limited, he's anticipated to play a pivotal role as the tournament advances. Jadeja is emerging as a potential game-changer, and opposing teams are likely to invest extra strategic efforts in deciphering how to counter his impact on Indian pitches.

Bowlers: Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj

Shardul Thakur finds himself in a precarious position for the upcoming clash with Bangladesh, with Mohammad Shami and R Ashwin vying for his spot, contingent on pitch conditions. Thakur's recent performances have been less than stellar, with runs conceded. However, his batting prowess down the order is a valuable asset, especially in dire situations and during batting collapses.

Kuldeep Yadav is set to be India's spin-bowling companion alongside Ravindra Jadeja. He's been a standout performer in the tournament and aims to sustain his excellent form. Notably, he has incorporated extra pace into his deliveries while preserving his spin and turn, a tip perhaps thats's what Rohit whispered to him during their NCA rendezvous. With these adjustments, he appears to be an enigma for opposing batter.

Jasprit Bumrah is spearheading the Indian pace attack with remarkable prowess. In recent encounters, he has consistently impressed, maintaining his peak performance. Bumrah's effectiveness was particularly evident against Pakistan, where his mastery with the aging ball was striking. His dismissal of Rizwan and Shadab Khan with unplayable deliveries underscores his impeccable line and length.

Mohammed Siraj, in his appearances against Afghanistan and Pakistan, has proven to be a mixed bag, conceding runs while also snaring vital wickets. His dismissal of Babar Azam in Ahmedabad was a pivotal moment in the match. Much like his heroics in the recent Asia Cup Final, Siraj's contributions continue to strengthen his standing in the team.

Also Check: Most Wickets in ODI World Cup 2023

India’s predicted XI:

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj