ODI World Cup 2023: India's strongest predicted playing XI against Pakistan

India (IND) and Pakistan (PAK) are set to face off in the 12th match of the ICC World Cup 2023, which will be held at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad on Saturday, October 14. 

The match was initially slated for October 15 but was shifted to October 14 due to security apprehensions, as officially communicated by the local police. Officials from both the BCCI and PCB are anticipated to be in attendance at the pavilion to witness the game.

Meanwhile, India enter the crucial match with a solid track record and their recent performance includes a notable six-wicket triumph over Australia and an eight-wicket win against Afghanistan. As they aim to maintain their strong form, they might consider bringing in Mohammed Shami at the expense of Shardul Thakur.

Notably, India have maintained a remarkable winning streak against Pakistan, securing seven consecutive victories in as many meetings in World Cup history. They are now eyeing their eighth triumph. 

Here's India’s Predicted XI against Pakistan:

Openers: Rohit Sharma (C), Ishan Kishan

Rohit Sharma will maintain his role as the opening batsman. Following a scoreless outing against Australia, he made a sensational comeback by notching an impressive 131 runs off a mere 84 balls, featuring 16 fours and five sixes. His performance dismantled the Afghanistan bowling lineup and set several batting records. 

Shubman Gill has joined the team in Ahmedabad but remains a doubtful starter owing to his recovery from Dengue fever and therefore Ishan Kishan is expected to continue with the opening duties. Following a scoreless outing against Australia, the left-hander played a pivotal role by contributing 47 crucial runs against Afghanistan, partnering Rohit in a significant 156-run partnership.

Also Check: Most Runs in ODI World Cup 2023

Middle Order:  Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (WK)

Virat Kohli displayed his batting prowess with an impressive score of 85 against Australia. In the subsequent match against Afghanistan, Kohli remained unbeaten on 55. As a result of his stellar performances, he has climbed into the top 10 list of leading run-scorers in the tournament, amassing 140 runs in just two matches. 

Shreyas Iyer was dismissed without scoring any runs in India's inaugural World Cup 2023 match against Australia. However, in the subsequent game against Afghanistan, he redeemed himself with an unbeaten 24 and stayed at the crease until the end. The performance is likely to boost his confidence as the tournament progresses.

KL Rahul is slated to occupy the fifth batting position. He recently showcased his batting prowess with an unbeaten 97-run innings against the Australian team and has consistently delivered as a run-scorer for India in the number five position. Rahul's performance in the tournament will hold significant importance for India's prospects, and it is worth noting that he serves as the specialist wicketkeeper for the team.

Also Check: List of Virat Kohli international & IPL centuries

All-Rounders: Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin

Hardik Pandya is designated to bat in the sixth position. He played a pivotal role alongside Rahul in the victory over Australia. In the subsequent match against Afghanistan, Pandya contributed with the ball, taking two wickets for 49 runs, although he did not get a chance to bat. Notably, Pandya possesses the ability to bowl a full 10-over quota and can be quite economical in the middle overs.

Ravindra Jadeja is slotted to bat in the seventh position. In the game against Australia, he was in excellent form, claiming 3 wickets for just 28 runs and emerging as one of the standout bowlers. His performance remained steady in the match against Afghanistan, where he delivered an economical spell, conceding just 38 runs. Although his batting form might not be at its peak, Jadeja's exceptional skills makes him a valuable asset who can't be overlooked.

Ravichandran Ashwin is set to occupy the eighth position in the batting lineup. He made a valuable contribution in India's win, taking a wicket for 34 runs against Australia. Ashwin bowled his full quota of 10 overs and removed Cameron Green. While he did not participate in the match against Afghanistan, his experience makes him a preferred choice over Shardul Thakur.

Bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav

Jasprit Bumrah will lead India's pace attack in the World Cup, taking 2/35 against Australia and 4/39 against Afghanistan. He is expected to play a vital role against Pakistan, having secured 18 wickets in the last World Cup.

Mohammed Shami is a strong candidate to replace Mohammed Siraj in the lineup. Shami's familiarity with Ahmedabad's conditions, as demonstrated with the Gujarat Titans, makes him a valuable addition. He comes with immense experience having played high pressure encounters before in tournaments like these.

Kuldeep Yadav serves as the second specialist spinner in the lineup, delivering commendable performances with figures of 2/42 and 1/40 in his two recent matches. His resurgence in form is evident. Notably, he has a history of dismissing Pakistan captain Babar Azam, making him a potential game-changer for India in the middle overs.

Also Check: Most Wickets in ODI World Cup 2023

India Predicted XI:

Rohit Sharma (c), Ishan Kishan, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav