Former India off-spinner Ravi Ashwin was asked to pick his ideal Indian squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup, and the veteran spinner left fans surprised with some of his selections.
Ashwin, who was part of India's 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team, has reportedly emerged as a contender for the chairman of selectors' role, with Ajit Agarkar's tenure expected to come to an end. In the meantime, he appeared on ESPNcricinfo, where he was asked to name his preferred India squad for the 2027 World Cup.
Ashwin Picks a Blend of Experience and Youth in His India Squad
Ashwin began by retaining veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in his squad. He also backed Shubman Gill to lead the side, while naming Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, and Ishan Kishan among his batting options.
His all-rounders include Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel, while Kuldeep Yadav is his lead spinner for the South African conditions. Ashwin's pace attack features Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Harshit Rana.
However, the biggest surprise in his squad was the inclusion of veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Ashwin believes Bhuvneshwar's experience and ability with the new ball could prove invaluable in South Africa, and wants him to partner Bumrah in the pace attack.
"Bhuvneshwar Kumar is a yes. I would communicate with him. Get him to play all the tournaments—first-class, Vijay Hazare, everything—and get him primed for South Africa. I think we will need him there," Ashwin said.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has not represented India since 2022. However, he enjoyed an impressive IPL season with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, playing a key role in their maiden title-winning campaign, while also delivering consistent performances in domestic cricket. Ashwin believes the experienced seamer can provide the X-factor that India may need at the 2027 ODI World Cup and wants the selectors to bring him back into the national setup.
Ashwin's preferred India squad
Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, Bhuvneshwar Kumar.
