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4 players picked for the ODI World Cup despite not being completely fit

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A few players tend to be very important for a side. Hence, even if they are not completely fit, teams pick these cricketers. This also has to do with the ODI World Cup being a long tournament. Even if a player is available for half of the games, depending on the impact he can have, the management can select a cricketer. Considering only 15 players are allowed in a squad, it is always going to be risk. That said, a few players have already been picked this way for the ongoing 2023 ODI World Cup. On that note, here, we take a look at four players picked for the ODI World Cup despite not being completely fit.

1) Kane Williamson

Since the first game of IPL 2023, Kane Williamson has not played a single competitive game. Yes, he played in the practice games of the ODI World Cup but for the first two matches of the tournament, at least, he could not make it to the final playing XI.

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However, this was expected. A few months ago, Kane was even doubtful for the tournament. However, he recovered well and is now very close to being match-fit. Not just as a cricketer, the New Zealand management picked the player as the skipper, as well. Till now, though, New Zealand has not faced any issues because of this decision.

2) Travis Head

Travis Head is one of the players picked for the ODI World Cup despite not being completely fit. When Travis Head recently suffered an injury, it was a big blow for the Aussies. He was a man in form and would have made a lot of difference to the top order. Many felt that he would be ruled out of the tournament. However, it appears that he could be back during the tournament.

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Hence, the Australian selectors named him in the team. He is someone who can change a game within a few overs. His impact can be enormous and since Australia is expected to reach the semi-finals, it made sense to select him. It now needs to be seen when he would be available.

3) Maheesh Theekshana

Ahead of the Asia Cup 2023 final, Maheesh Theekshana faced an injury. He could not play in the finals for Sri Lanka. Since then, he has been on the sidelines.

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With Wanindu Hasaranga completely injured, Sri Lanka needs Maheesh Theekshana in the XI. He might have been in a better state than Wanindu and hence, was selected. He missed the first game of the tournament. There are chances that he would play in the next encounter.

4) Tim Southee

Tim Southee is also one of the players picked for the ODI World Cup despite not being completely fit. The 34-year-old is one of the most experienced pacers in the game. Hence, despite being not fully fit, he made it to the World Cup squad.

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New Zealand has good depth when it comes to the pace department. Hence, it made sense that he was named in the team. Even if he can play a few games, he can have an impact, especially with his bowling in the powerplay.

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