Former India bowler Ajit Agarkar picked India’s playing XI for their World Cup 2019 opener against South Africa and his team had a number of surprises. While Agarkar opted for Vijay Shankar to bat at the No.4 position, the bowling department saw Bhuvneshwar Kumar lose his spot to Umesh Yadav.

While the Top 3 remained constant with Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan and Virat Kohli, the No.4 position went to Shankar who has impressed with his performances in recent times. In the middle order, Agarkar went with MS Dhoni and two all-rounders in the form of Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav.

“I have a little surprise with No. 4. It is Vijay Shankar. He has shown glimpses of what he can do at the top of the order. Rayudu has been batting there for a while, but in my opinion, Shankar has a more all-round game to fit in that position. Plus, he gives Virat Kohli an option of few overs if needed,” Agarkar told ESPNCricinfo.

The bowling attack was also quite surprising as Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah were his three seamers with Yuzvendra Chahal being the only spin option. Agarkar said that Kedar will be able support for Chahal and as a result, left-arm chinaman Kuldeep Yadav missed out.

Ajit Agarkar’s playing XI for World Cup 2019: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli, Vijay Shankar, MS Dhoni, Kedar Jadhav, Hardik Pandya, Umesh Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami.

First Published: Mar 18, 2019 17:07 IST