Published: Dec 22, 2015, 07:15 AM (IST)
Edited: Dec 22, 2015, 02:22 AM (IST)
VVS Laxman has lauded the selection of Yuvraj Singh, Ashish Nehra and Hardik Pandya in the upcoming Australia tour of 2015-16. Laxman told CricketCountry: “Batting positions 5, 6 and 7 have always been crucial for India in T20Is. Despite good starts India have often lost steam while batting in the death overs, which is where the power hitting ability of Yuvraj will be very important”. Laxman added: “Yuvraj has been in excellent form for Punjab in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. He can also contribute with the ball, as we have seen in the past. This will be ideal opportunity for him and I am sure he will do well.” FULL CRICKET SCORECARD: India vs Australia 2015-16, 1st ODI at Perth
Nehra’s last international appearance dates back to the semi-final of World Cup 2011 against Pakistan. Of Nehra, Laxman said: “Early wickets with the new ball and bowling at the death have been a major concern for India in the recent past and this is where the experience of Ashish Nehra will be very useful. He has been doing that consistently for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League. He picks up wickets with the new ball and his death bowling has also been fantastic; not only does he prevent the opposition from playing big strokes in the final overs, but also takes those crucial wickets. I think the selectors have taken an excellent decision especially keeping in mind the upcoming T20 World Cup.”
Laxman also had good words for uncapped Pandya: “Over the last few years there has always been a dearth of all-rounders in the Indian side. I feel Pandya has got the talent to fulfil that role. I have watched him play for Mumbai Indians, and have been impressed with the way he played in the 2015 IPL. He bowls decently, is a livewire on field, and can hit the big shots. He will certainly add to the balance of the team.”
