Two spinners must for India in remaining Champions Trophy matches: Sourav Ganguly

Former Indian skipper Sourav Ganguly has urged India to continue playing two spinners in the remaining matches of ICC Champions Trophy. India face the resurgent Bangladesh in the second semi-final in Birmingham on Thursday. Ravichandran Ashwin was brought back into the side in place of Umesh Yadav after the defeat against Sri Lanka and he did well in the must-win game against South Africa.

“India bowled superbly against South Africa. I was surprised when they left out Umesh Yadav. Ashwin should have been an automatic choice but Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Bumrah did a good job in absence of Umesh and Shami,” Ganguly said to India Today.

“Two spinners must for India in the remaining matches,” he added. He also believed that the defending champions are the favourites to win. “India will start as favourites against Bangladesh in the semi-finals. They have bounced back hard after their defeat against Sri Lanka. Bangladesh will be against a team that is very strong,” Ganguly said.

The 44-year-old was all praise for Virat Kohli and his captaincy so far in the tournament. “Virat Kohli has led the side exceptionally well. His captaincy has been terrific. He’s been outstanding for India,” he said.

India lead Bangladesh 5-1 in head-to-head encounters at the ICC tournaments but the Tigers can’t be taken lightly and they can beat any side on any given day. The pitch is likely to be full of runs with no tinge of grass. Both the teams would love to chase after winning the toss which has been a trend in this tournament.

Earlier, Pakistan put on a brilliant performance against England and booked their place in the final. The cricket fans would be rooting for India vs Pakistan final and if India manages to beat Bangladesh, it would surely be a treat for everyone.