“I’m used to it now… it’s been three World Cups” Yuzvendra Chahal shifts focus to Test cricket after yet another World Cup snub

Chahal stated that he is used to facing rejection for the World Cups because he couldn't make it to the squad list in three World Cups.

“I’m used to it now… it’s been three World Cups” Yuzvendra Chahal shifts focus to Test cricket after yet another World Cup snub

Yuzvendra Chahal (Image via YouTube)

India leg spinner Yuzvendra Chahal missed out on getting an opportunity to feature in the 2023 ODI World Cup squad as Indian management decided to include Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Ravichandran Ashwin in the spin department. This snub led to Chahal flying to England to take part in the county championship for Kent and now, the leggie’s focus has shifted to red-ball cricket.

In an interview with Wisden India, Chahal stated that he is used to facing rejection for the World Cups because he couldn’t make it to the squad list in three World Cups. Chahal failed to cement his spot for the 2021 T20 World Cup, then in the 2022 T20 World Cup, he was picked up but did not get a single match, and finally the forthcoming ODI World Cup. All-rounder Axar Patel’s void created an opportunity but Ashwin filled that spot.

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“I understand that only fifteen players can be a part because it’s a World Cup, where you can’t take 17 or 18. I do feel a little bad, but my motto in life is to move on. I’m used to it now… it’s been three World Cups,” Chahal told Wisden India. His brief stint with Kent helped him with valuable experience, and he has started to shift his focus to Test cricket and expressed his desire to play the longest format for India.

Related: “Enjoying the tournament is of utmost importance,” Ravichandran Ashwin says 2023 World Cup could be his LAST one

Yuzvendra Chahal opens up on competition with fellow spinners

Yuzvendra Chahal doesn’t focus on competing with the likes of Kuldeep Yadav and Ravichandran Ashwin to steal a spot in the squad. The leggie stated that he would rather try to work on himself which will eventually show the result. He understands that when players start playing outstanding cricket, they eventually replace someone in the team.

"I'm used to it now… it's been three World Cups" Yuzvendra Chahal shifting focus to Test cricket after yet another World Cup snub
Yuzvendra Chahal (Image via ESPNcricinfo)

At the same time, the World Cup snub did not make him feel bitter because he understands that cricket is not an individual game. He wants India to win the coveted cup to make everyone feel proud of the team.

Rohit Sharma and his men will start the World Cup against Australia in Chennai. The World Cup will commence on October 5 between England and New Zealand in Ahmedabad.

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