Team India lost the first ODI game by 31 runs to South Africa. Although the performances were underwhelming, there is a scope for a better XI to be selected. In this article, we take a look at two changes India could make in playing XI for the second ODI against South Africa. The next game will be on Friday at the same venue.
1) Suryakumar Yadav for Venkatesh Iyer
Suryakumar Yadav for Venkatesh Iyer is one of the two changes India could make in playing XI for the second ODI against South Africa. In the first encounter, Venkatesh Iyer had a forgettable outing. While the debutante did not bowl, he also failed to perform well with the bat. Venkatesh Iyer is an all-rounder and if he is not getting a chance to bowl, India might be better off having Suryakumar Yadav in his place. Thus, India can have a better batting depth compared to the first encounter. If SKY comes into the XI, he might be required to play at No.6. This is an important batting position in limited-overs cricket. Although it does not work exactly to SKY’s batting style, India could try out his finishing skills in the role.
2) Deepak Chahar for Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Bhuvneshwar Kumar was good only in patches in the first encounter. Shardul Thakur might continue to play because he did well with the bat. However, India needs another pacer who can pick wickets consistently. Bhuvi, unfortunately, has not been able to do that now. Hence, Deepak Chahar could come into his place. Deepak is known to collect wickets in the initial overs and has also improved his death-bowling skills in recent months. With Deepak coming in, India will have additional insurance in the batting department. In fact, Deepak can operate as a floater to enforce the situation if required. However, that is still a distant tactic for now. Bhuvi might also get another chance considering his experience.
