R Ashwin Advises South Africa To Drop Shamsi For T20 World Cup Final Against India

Ravichandran Ashwin has advised South Africa to reconsider their choice of spinner for the T20 World Cup 2024 final against India. He suggested that Tabraiz Shamsi might not be the best option for the match at Kensington Oval in Barbados on June 29.

Ashwin believes that Shamsi could be easily targeted by Indian batters, potentially conceding many runs. He recommended that South Africa should opt for right-arm pacer Ottneil Baartman instead of Shamsi in their playing eleven.

"Shamsi is one bowler who will go for sweeps. And India has been sweeping. Adil Rashid, (Liam) Livingstone was slightly quicker through the area. They were able to get 39 runs along with Jordan and Sam Curran. I see this as a very important match-up. And hence, I believe South Africa should seriously consider playing (Ottniel) Baartman ahead of Shamsi for the final," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Robin Uthappa shared similar views during a discussion with Ashwin. The former opener expressed his preference for facing Shamsi over Baartman in the final. Uthappa explained that he would feel more confident if Shamsi played against India.

"As far as I am concerned, if Shamsi is playing, I will be damn happy, especially in Barbados. And if Baartman is playing, I will be like, we have to be a little wary. Who would I prefer between these two? Definitely, Shamsi. I know that he will give runs. Even if he takes a wicket, I don't care. If he takes 40-45-50 runs, I am done. Because in India's current batting approach, even if he takes a wicket, it's not a big deal," Uthappa said on Ashwin's show 'Judgement Day'.

Despite these opinions, Tabraiz Shamsi has been one of South Africa's standout bowlers in this T20 World Cup edition. He has taken 11 wickets in just four matches, maintaining an average of 9.27 and an economy rate of 7.37.

South Africa faces a crucial decision regarding their bowling line-up for the final match against India. The choice between Shamsi and Baartman could significantly impact their performance and strategy.

The insights from Ashwin and Uthappa highlight the importance of strategic player selection based on match conditions and opposition strengths.