Sport · India Bureau
Pathan Backs Gambhir For Expanded Role Ahead Of World Cup
Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan has suggested the upcoming West Indies series presents an ideal opportunity to evaluate the squad's bench strength ahead of the World Cup. Pathan indicated that experimentation with fringe players could prove beneficial for team management.
LSN India ·
India's West Indies tour is shaping up as a crucial testing ground for the national team's depth, with former fast bowler Irfan Pathan endorsing the use of the series to assess bench strength ahead of the World Cup. The upcoming assignment offers selectors and the coaching staff a valuable window to evaluate players pushing for inclusion in the main squad.
Pathan's comments suggest that the tour should not be treated merely as a routine bilateral series, but rather as part of the broader World Cup preparation strategy. By rotating players and giving opportunities to fringe squad members, India can gather important data on their readiness for the global tournament.
The West Indies series historically has provided Indian teams with an opportunity to fine-tune combinations and build match fitness among reserves. This tour appears set to follow that pattern, with the support of experienced voices like Pathan indicating the board's intent to use the fixtures constructively.
For players on the periphery of selection, the West Indies leg represents a critical platform to stake their claims for World Cup inclusion. The exposure gained during the tour could prove decisive in the final squad selection process.