Xtra Time Web Desk: The wicket at the MA Chidambaram stadium for the India versus Australia game in ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 is likely going to be black soil. The track is likely to assist the slow bowlers which means the team management will play all three spinners Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja.
The ground staffs were seen mowing off the grass on Thursday evening. The surface is expected to be on the drier side, like a tradition Chennai track. Despite the soaring temperatures, the pitch was covered to prevent it from breaking, and no watering was done after the evening training session. Indian captain, Rohit Sharma, and head coach Rahul Dravid examined the pitch closely, suggesting a preference for the spin-friendly conditions.
In the practice session, Ravichandran Ashwin, who replaced Axar Patel in the final World Cup squad, showcased his skills, troubling the batsmen with his variations. Kuldeep and Jadeja too had an extended bowling session.
Considering Rohit Sharma’s emphasis on batting depth, India is likely to alternate between a three-spinner and three-pacer combination, with the additional seam bowling option of Hardik Pandya. In that case Shardul Thakur will have to sit out for the opening game against Australia. The final decision will depend on the conditions prevailing on match day.