'The question will be around that fourth seamer and the all-rounder in Thakur and Ashwin' - Assistant coach Daniel Vettori on Australia mulling over Indian team combination

Daniel Vettori, Australia's assistant coach, stated that his side expects all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will be in India's playing XI for the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final but is doubtful about Ravichandran Ashwin and Shardul Thakur's inclusion. The Oval in London will host the second edition of the marque contest between India and Australia from June 7 to June 12.

During the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in March 2023, India used three spinners. Ashwin and Jadeja were crucial for the Rohit Sharma-led side, picking 25 and 22 wickets respectively, to assist their team in winning the series 2-1, and have been jointly named Player of the Series.

Ahead of Australia's training session at the Kent County Cricket Ground in Beckenham the assistant Australia coach revealed that the team management discussed India's likely bowling attack extensively. He believes Jadeja will play, mentioning his batting and his success at the No.6 spot. He also stated that the question will revolve around the fourth seamer and all-rounder in Thakur and Ashwin, both of whom he believes are excellent alternatives in the Indian squad.

“We have been debating that. I think Jadeja will play because of the batting he brings to the table and how successful he has been at that No.6 position. Then the question will be around that fourth seamer and the all-rounder in Thakur and Ashwin, but they are pretty good choices," Vettori told the local media.

 Ashwin will be first choice in most teams: Vettori

Even after having a decent record in England, Daniel Vettori believes Ashwin may be overlooked for a spot in the playing XI due to squad combination. He also stated that the experienced Indian off-spinner is a fantastic bowler who will be the first choice in most teams. Notably, Ashwin has 18 wickets at an average of 28.11 in seven matches in England but has only played one Test at The Oval.

“Ashwin is an incredible bowler and he will be first choice in most teams, and just with their combinations, it may lead to that (him missing selection). We expect The Oval to behave how it always behaves. It is a good wicket, but it can offer a lot to the spinners as the game goes on," Vettori concluded.