Zaheer Khan bats for a youngster's inclusion in the Indian team for World Cup

Team India looks like a settled unit but their middle order is undercooked with only 20 odd ODIs to go for the World Cup. The much-debated number four slot is yet to be nailed down after trying so many players at that position in the last three years. They are currently playing in the Asia Cup and have qualified for the final but the conditions in England are definitely going to be different which is why the former Indian cricketer Zaheer Khan wants Rishabh Pant to claim his place in the side.

It is clear that there are still a few places up for grabs in the team and even the chief selector and the captains have agreed to the same. Ambati Rayudu has looked good so far in the Asia Cup but the team has been devoid of the final push when it comes to the death overs. They faced a similar problem in England during the ODI series.

“I think Rishabh Pant can claim his spot in the team with about 25 matches to go, it’s still a long way. The team management has been very open trying different options which is something that they will keep an eye on, because he’s got the ability to change the tempo of the game and hit big sixes which will be required in those death overs,” Zaheer was quoted as saying by Mid-Day.

Need to find a player like Pandya

Zaheer Khan also opined that the team management needs to find a player like Hardik Pandya who lends the balance to the team with his all-round skills. He felt that three seamers and two spinners in the team are the way to go during the World Cup next year in England.

“They could go with five specialist bowlers, three seamers and a couple of spinners or they would need to find someone who is going to be a replacement for Pandya if he is not available or fit,” the 39-year-old concluded.

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