Champions Trophy: Aakash Chopra shares quirky strategy to dismiss Head
What's the story
Former Indian cricketer, Aakash Chopra, has suggested a quirky tactic for the Men in Blue to deal with Australian opener Travis Head in their upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy semi-final encounter. The match is set to be played today at the Dubai International Stadium. Despite India's traditional blue jersey color, Chopra jokingly said it could be a good idea for them to change their jersey color as Head tends to do really well against teams wearing blue.
Strategy
Head's performance against India is a concern
Chopra, who represented India between 2003 and 2011, jokingly said he would wear black instead of blue for the match. He stressed the importance of proactive plans to get rid of Head, who had scored a century in the 2023 ODI World Cup final against India. "How to stop Travis Head? Firstly, bowl around the stump and close to him. Try bouncers at the start and bring spin without wasting any time," Chopra advised on his YouTube channel 'Aakash Chopra.'
Spin attack
India's spin strategy against Head
Despite Head's weakness against short balls, India has failed to capitalize on it. Chopra also suggested India could target the left-handed batter with spin, especially with four spinners likely in their playing XI. "Travis Head will keep hitting till the time he stays, and you will keep breathing hard till the time he keeps hitting because he is that kind of a player," Chopra said in his YouTube video.
Request
Chopra's plea for head to perform poorly
Chopra jokingly asked that Head, who is contracted with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) for ₹14 crore, should get out cheaply in the semi-final. "My brother, I request you with folded hands... please stop. We have given you a good IPL contract. Please respect the huge money we are paying you and get out," Chopra said. He also pointed out that every time Head plays against India, he does exceptionally well.