Former player of Indian Cricket Team Harbhajan Singh has explained the reason why he would choose Ashwin over Kuldeep Yadav in the playing 11 of team India for the 2023 World Cup. Kuldeep had an amazing year in ODIs in 2023. His contributions have been instrumental in the success of India in the cricketing arena, particularly during the Asia Cup 2023. He holds the prestigious title of being India's leading wicket-taker in men's ODIs for 2023, with a remarkable tally of 33 wickets.
While speaking, Harbhajan was asked to pick his ideal bowling lineup for India during the tournament. He went on to pick Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami.
When it came to the spinners, he decided to pick Ashwin over Kuldeep in the playing XI for the World Cup, as he said, "If you want a proven bowler, I would go with R Ashwin alongside Ravindra Jadeja.”
When asked again, the former cricketer said that he would pick Ashwin since he can bat as well. "Yes, because Ashwin can bat as well. He further said, "That's where you have to back your guy who has done it. If he doesn't, then you can have a guy who can come in and perform like Kuldeep.”