Delhi: Before the fourth Test, the Indian cricket team took a little break from the practice and visited Manchester United’s famous training facility. This experience was very special for the players. On this occasion, cricket giants like Michael Vaughan, Ravi Shastri, Phil Tuffnell, Alastair Cook and David Lloyd together held a fun discussion – how would their playing XI play if Team India had played football? He gave every player a position according to his specialty in 4-4-2 formation.

Bumrah in the role of goalkeeper, Pant became out

The first talked about the goalkeeper. Everyone’s eyes were on Rishabh Pant, but he was rejected for this role. Michael Vaughan said, “Pant is small, a long hand is needed for the goalkeeper.” In such a situation, this responsibility was given to fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah.

Vaughan compared Luke Shaw

However, Rishabh Pant was not dropped from the team. He was replaced by left-back. Von jokingly said, “Pant is like a little luke shaw. Confident and zealous.”

Jaiswal and Rahul’s entry

Phil Tafnell compared Ravindra Jadeja to Manchester United’s veteran Ryan Gigs and gave him a place on the left wing. At the same time, Yashasvi Jaiswal was given the role of number 10 i.e. attacking midfielder. Von said, “Jaiswal may bother a little, but the game is guaranteed – like Messi.”

KL Rahul was elected defensive midfielder. Vaughan compared him to Michael Carric and said that he is technically strong and a quick understanding of the game. Karun Nair was also kept in midfield.

Gill and serious team striker

Shubman Gill got a place in the forward line. David Lloyd said that he can be a strong but agile striker-some like a few. At the same time, Gautam Gambhir was placed on the right wing. Lloyd jokingly copied David Beckham’s free-kick and said that Gambhir has been selected for “those curlers”.

Siraj, famous and Nitish in Defense

Ravi Shastri chose Nitish Kumar Reddy in the role of Right-Back, even if he is out of the series. He said, “Nitish is fast, disciplined and strong.” Mohammad Siraj and the famous Krishna were placed in the Central Defense.

Morne Morkel’s unique entry

Team India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel was placed in the left midfield. Lloyd jokingly said, “This is the worst footballer I have seen.” He told that Morkel can play with only one leg and gets nervous in front of the goal. However, his record in Tests against England has been excellent – 79 wickets in 19 matches.

Kuldeep Yadav Football crazy

Ravi Shastri also told that Kuldeep Yadav is the biggest football fan of the cricket team. He said, “Don’t know which team he supports, but his passion is different for football.”

Team India’s football XI selected by cricketers

Goalkeeper: Jaspreet Bumrah
Defenders: Nitish Kumar Reddy (Right-Back), Mohammad Siraj and famous Krishna (Center-Back), Rishabh Pant (Left-Back)
Midfielders: KL Rahul (Defensive Midfield), Karun Nair (Center Midfield), Ravindra Jadeja (Left Midfield), Yashasvi Jaiswal (Attacking Midfield)
Forwards: Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir