India’s Asian Games squad is a sign of the future, especially in the T20 format. It is expected that most of these players would have done well in the recent IPL. However, surprisingly, a few of them did not even get to play in the competition. That said, it is full marks to BCCI, who measured consistent performances over the last few years rather than just the recent season. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of two Indians in the Asian Games 2023 squad who warmed the bench in IPL 2023.
1) R Sai Kishore
R Sai Kishore made his debut for Team India in the first game for the nation against Nepal in the Asian Games. It was an emotional moment for the youngster, who had been waiting for his opportunity for a very long time.
However, he did not play a single game in IPL 2023. Gujarat Titans opted for a spin combination of Rashid Khan and Noor Ahmad. This worked big-time for them as the duo helped the side reach the finals of the competition. Because of this, Sai did not get an opportunity although he had finished IPL 2022 on a good note.
2) Akash Deep
Akash Deep is one of the Indians in the Asian Games 2023 squad who warmed the bench in IPL 2023. While Sai went benched for the whole season, it was 12 games for Akash Deep. The West Bengal pacer played just 2 games for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2023.
Akash replaced Shivam Mavi in the Asian Games squad. In fact, even Shivam Mavi went benched for the whole season in IPL 2023. Nevertheless, both these pacers are talented cricketers, who also offer something with the bat. It is important to groom them and keep them ready for the future. Akash could even get a game in the Asian Games.
