R Ashwin may replace Varun Chakravarthy for India’s T20 World Cup 2021 clash against New Zealand: Sanjay Bangar

Stakes will be incredibly high when India take on New Zealand in their second game in the ICC T20 World Cup 2021. The high-voltage encounter takes place at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday (October 31). Having suffered a humiliating 10-wicket defeat against arch-rivals Pakistan, Virat Kohli’s men have made a terrible start to their campaign and would like to bounce back before it’s too late.

Moreover, many are viewing this clash as a virtual knock-out as Pakistan’s place in the semi-final is almost certain and only one other team from Group 2 can advance to the next stage. Hence, a defeat against the Kiwis would largely hamper India’s chances of getting the glory. The Indian camp would be aware of the same and the team management would be busy strategizing.

As none of the Indian bowlers could take a wicket against Pakistan, many experts and former cricketers reckon changes in the bowling attack should be made. Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar is also of the same opinion. He feels that India must play Ravichandran Ashwin instead of Varun Chakravarthy against the Blackcaps.

R Ashwin may get the nod: Sanjay Bangar

“Varun Chakravarthy’s recent performances in UAE. He was very effective at Sharjah, but not in Dubai – where this game will be played. Taking into account the importance of the game, the number of matches played by Varun Chakravarthy is a little less, and his international experience is a little less,” Bangar said on Star Sports.

“For a game of this significance, you would definitely want somebody with temperament and experience. So, in my opinion, Ravichandran Ashwin may get the nod in place of Varun Chakravarthy,” he added.

It has to be noted that India have never defeated India in T20 World Cup before. The two teams locked horns twice in the global event and the Kiwis walked away with victories both times. Hence, it would be interesting to see how this contest pans out. Like the Men in Blue, the Kane Williamson-led side also suffered a defeat against Pakistan in their opening game. Hence, they also have everything to play for in the high-pressure match in Dubai.