India's best Playing XI based on 15-men squad for ICC Cricket World Cup 2023

India have announced their 15-members for upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2023.

With the ICC Cricket World Cup just a little over a month away, India have unveiled their squad for the upcoming tournament, which will be hosted entirely in India for the very first time. The squad announcement happened at a press conference in Kandy, where the Indian team is currently participating in Asia Cup 2023. Some key figures, like captain Rohit Sharma and the chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, were present at the event.

Notable squad changes include the omission of Asia Cup players Tilak Varma and Prasidh Krishna, as well as backup wicket-keeper Sanju Samson. KL Rahul, despite fitness concerns, is in and expected for Asia Cup. Yuzvendra Chahal is out, while the spin department banks on Kuldeep Yadav and all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel. Suryakumar Yadav got another ODI opportunity, and Shardul Thakur's batting skills contribute to his inclusion. The squad aims to break India's ICC trophy drought under Rohit Sharma's leadership.

India's 15-member squad for the ODI World Cup 2023: Rohit Sharma (c), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Axar Patel, Ishan Kishan (wk), Suryakumar Yadav.

Considering the squad, let's explore the potential best playing XI for the World Cup:

1. Rohit Sharma (C):

Rohit Sharma will captain the team and partner with Shubman Gill as the opening pair. This marks Rohit's first time leading India in a 50-over World Cup, and he is determined to break India's decade-long ICC trophy drought.

2. Shubman Gill:

In the past year and a half, Shubman Gill has consistently impressed, earning his place in the squad. He is set to open alongside Captain Rohit Sharma in the upcoming World Cup.

3. Virat Kohli:

Virat Kohli's role for India will be pivotal as he occupies his preferred position at number three. His unwavering determination to make significant contributions will be crucial in India's pursuit of success in the World Cup.

4. Shreyas Iyer:

Shreyas Iyer has effectively addressed India's long-standing issue at the number four position, which had been a concern since 2019. He has performed admirably since being given opportunities and aims to continue making the most of his chances, especially in the upcoming World Cup.

5. KL Rahul (Wk):

KL Rahul, now recovered from his injury, is poised to rejoin the team during the Asia Cup's Super Four stage. He is not only slated to hold the No. 5 batting position but will also take on the role of wicket-keeper in both the Asia Cup and the World Cup. The ongoing debate regarding his selection versus Ishan Kishan adds an intriguing aspect to the team's composition.

6. Hardik Pandya:

Hardik Pandya is set to play a crucial role for India in the upcoming World Cup, contributing significantly with both his batting and bowling skills. His recent form has been impressive, making him a key asset for India as they head into the World Cup.

7. Ravindra Jadeja:

Just like Pandya, Jadeja will play a crucial role for India in the World Cup. He's been in good form recently and will be a key player, especially as the second spinner in the playing XI alongside Kuldeep Yadav.

8. Shardul Thakur:

There's an interesting debate about whether Shardul Thakur should be part of the squad as the third seam bowler. It will be exciting to see how he performs in the ongoing Asia Cup, as his performance here could influence his chances of making it into the playing XI for the upcoming World Cup.

9. Kuldeep Yadav:

Kuldeep Yadav got the nod over Yuzvendra Chahal due to his strong performances this year. He's in the squad and will look to make a significant contribution with the ball. India are likely to field just two spinners, Kuldeep and Jadeja in the World Cup.

10. Jasprit Bumrah:

Jasprit Bumrah, returning from a significant injury break, has made his way back into the squad. The Indian team has been eagerly anticipating his return for the World Cup, fully aware of the significant void left by his absence. He is expected to take the new ball once again along with Shami.

11. Mohammed Shami:

In addition to Bumrah, Shami will partner as the new ball bowler. Shami has posted impressive performances this year. Although he hasn't featured in India's recent series as he was rested, he is now back and eager to make a significant impact for the team.