Five mistakes India should avoid in ICC World Cup 2019
The Indian cricket team will be going into the ICC World Cup 2019 as one of the favorites to win the title. One expects Virat Kohli's side to dominate the proceedings, something they have done since 2017. India open their World Cup campaign against South Africa on June 5. Here are the mistakes which Men In Blue should avoid in the 2019 World Cup.
India need to choose their number four wisely
India's middle order could be their weakest link in England and Wales. The number four position, in particular, looks like the Achilles' heel. The Indian selectors have picked Vijay Shankar for this role, but he doesn't bring in the composure. Shankar lacks experience and has been poor in the Indian Premier League 2019 season as well. India need to pick someone apart from Shankar.
India need to properly utilize their experienced middle order batsmen
India need to utilize their veterans properly. Dinesh Karthik can be trusted as a finisher and he should get game time. Further, India should use MS Dhoni as someone whose task is to build the innings rather than finish matches. He is one of the in-form players who can be relied upon in case the top order fails. Dhoni should come at number four.
India need to choose their playing XI wisely
India need to choose their playing XI as per conditions and they cannot make wrong calls. They need to have more than five bowling options. The pitches will assist pace at large and that is why all the three premier bowlers should feature, alongside Hardik Pandya. Also when required, India should choose a second all-round option in the form of Ravindra Jadeja.
India cannot rely solely on the top order
The Men In Blue need their complete batting line-up to deliver the goods so that they do not remain over dependent on the top order. India's top order has contributed immensely in the last couple of years, but it is time others share the burden. This is why players like Kedar Jadhav will need to rise up to the occasion.
Kohli's captaincy needs to improve
Kohli will be required to think quickly and be bold with his decision-making. He should take as much help as he needs from MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma. Dhoni, in particular, has been a guiding force and the Indian skipper will need to leave certain decisions on MSD. However, if India need to win the World Cup, Kohli's captaincy has to be top notch.
