‘Leaving out Yuzvendra Chahal could be a mistake’ - Yuvraj Singh warns of potential oversight in India's World Cup squad selection

In a recent statement the legendary India all-rounder, Yuvraj Singh, has voiced his concerns about the omission of spinner Yuzvendra Chahal from India's 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. The tournament is set to commence on October 5, and Yuvraj's insights have ignited a spirited debate among cricket enthusiasts.

He emphasised the significance of Yuzvendra Chahal's leg-spin prowess in the limited-overs format. Chahal, a seasoned campaigner, has scalped an impressive 141 wickets in just 72 One Day Internationals (ODIs) for the Indian team. His omission from the World Cup squad, according to him, might be a strategic misstep.

The south paw's apprehensions stem from the belief that the India leg spinner's artistry with the ball, particularly on pitches offering substantial turn or those favouring slower conditions, could have been a game-changing factor for Team India. The 33-year-old's ability to bamboozle batters with his leg-spin variations has been a pivotal asset for the Indian squad in recent years.

“Leaving out Yuzvendra Chahal could be a mistake, could be a worry. At least could have kept him in the squad. A leg-spinner is someone who will always take wickets for you. Kuldeep is doing fantastic. But Chahal could have been dangerous on turning tracks and slower wickets. Hardik giving you the balance of a third seamer, you could have picked Yuzvendra Chahal,” remarked Yuvraj during his conversation with The Week.

Yuvraj minced no words on Bumrah’s comeback and India’s road ahead of World Cup

On a brighter note, the 41-year-old acknowledged the return of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah to the Indian lineup as a positive development. Bumrah, who had been sidelined due to a protracted back injury, is set to bolster India's pace battery in the World Cup.

“Jasprit Bumrah coming back is good because there was something missing in that department. I had some concerns before the Asia Cup due to injuries. Winning the Asia Cup does not guarantee that you will win the World Cup. However, it shows that India is in good form,” 'Yuvi' added.