India's 'B' team will win the T20 World Cup, Swann said - what is the need of Kohli, Bumrah, Pant
Former England spinner Graeme Swann says India can send their 'B team' to succeed in the World Cup in Australia later this year.
Swann's remarks came at a time when India won against England in the first match of the 3-match T20I series in Southampton on Thursday, July 7. India beat Jos Buttler's team by 50 runs despite the absence of Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja.
Kohli, Bumrah, Jadeja and Pant were rested
Kohli, Bumrah, Jadeja and Pant were rested.
India's bench strength again demonstrated. While captain Rohit played a quick innings of 24 runs, Deepak Hooda, batting at number three, scored 33 runs in just 17 balls, followed by Suryakumar Yadav's 39 and Hardik Pandya's match-winning half-century.
India's 'B' team will win the T20 World Cup
Hooda in particular has been in excellent form. But with Kohli and Pant coming in, this player may have to sit out which would be very absurd as Virat Kohli is battling for runs and Hooda is hitting the shots whenever he wants. At the same time, Jadeja is expected to replace Axar Patel.
Arshdeep Singh also took 2 wickets while making his debut and displayed his swing-bowling skills but Jasprit Bumrah will come in his place. Even Umran Malik is waiting for his chance.
India should send its B team to Australia
So Swann told Sony Sports, 'India should send their B team to Australia and probably win the World Cup.'
The former England spinner said the playing XI against England on Thursday has the potential to beat the hosts again and changing the winning combination is good news for Butler's side.
This team will beat England again
Swann said, 'I think it's a good idea that you are with so many players. You got a winning team and it will be completely replaced in the second game against England. I want India to please do this. Because this team will beat England again. In 2 days time, even if you bring in world class players like Bumrah, Kohli and Pant, it upsets the balance that has played out so well.
Virat Kohli opens the batting with Rohit Sharma
Meanwhile, Swann suggested that Virat Kohli open the batting with Rohit Sharma. Kohli has been batting at No. 3 for India in T20s but his inefficiency in the middle overs has been a cause for concern. The former captain is opening the batting for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League.