'We have shortlised 17-18 players' - Rahul Dravid speaks on ODI World Cup squad ahead of third ODI against Australia

Rahul Dravid (Image Credit: Twitter)

India head coach Rahul Dravid has spoken about the team's plans for the ODI World Cup 2023. The upcoming third ODI between India and Australia will be the Men In Blue's last assignment at home before the World Cup. The series is leveled 1-1 with the Aussies making a strong comeback in the second ODI with a 10-wicket win. They had lost the first game by five wickets.

Meanwhile, the former India skipper has said that they have selected 17-18 players for the showpiece event. Dravid also pointed out that some players are recovering from injuries (Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, etc.). He added that depending on the time frame of their recoveries, these players might come back in the mix.

"We've narrowed it down to 17-18 players, we have a few guys who are recovering from injuries and might come into the mix, depending on the time frame of their recoveries and how long it takes for them to come back," Dravid said in a press conference on the eve of the third ODI.

We are pretty clear about the team we want to play: Rahul Dravid

The Bangalorian further added that the team is in a good space and is clear about the players they want to play. He also mentioned that the shortlisted players will get enough opportunities before the World Cup.

"All in all, I think we are pretty much in a good space. We're pretty clear about the kind of team we want to play in. And, hopefully, we can give these guys who we've zeroed in on, as many playing opportunities as we can. If it's in India, it's great, but even if it's not in India, we just want to give as many opportunities as we can to build our side."