WTC Final: India might include an extra seamer in their playing XI, feels Dale Steyn

Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn feels India might go with an extra seamer ahead of the second day’s play in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) Final against New Zealand in the Ageas Bowl in Southampton. The rain washed away the entire first day’s play and according to the rules, India can still alter their playing XI. They have Mohammed Siraj, Hanuma Vihari, Umesh Yadav, and Wriddhiman Saha to choose from.

With persistent rain predicted on the second day as well, India might look to include either Siraj or Yadav in the WTC Final line-up. Steyn feels India may look to explore that possible option in these overcast conditions at the venue.

While India boldly announced their playing XI and included Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja for the summit clash, New Zealand are yet to disclose their final XI. The former South African speedster though lauded the Virat Kohli-led team’s confidence ahead of the marquee clash. He also feels Kohli is confident of getting a result which is a really good sign.

“I like what they (Team India) have done. They have come out and told the world, the team that they are going to go with. But they only have to hand in the team sheet at the toss so if they want to change their team and bring in an extra seamer, they are more than welcome to do that. They probably might even do that,” Steyn said while speaking to ESPNCricinfo.

R Sridhar reckons India will make a change to the final playing XI if the need arises

India’s fielding coach R Sridhar has also given a proper explanation regarding the team’s combination while speaking at a press conference after rain washed away the entire day’s play. He felt the original playing XI selected can perform against any team and in any conditions whatsoever.

“The XI that was announced (previously) is a team that takes the pitch and conditions out of the equation. They can perform in any given weather conditions. Having said that, the toss is not yet over, so a decision on the final XI will be taken at the time of the toss if needed,” he said.