5 overlooked Indian cricketers were part of World Cup squads but seldom featured in matches. Selected for their potential, they were either sidelined due to strong team performances, injuries not affecting key players, or playing backup roles. Some even missed significant personal milestones to travel with the team.
5. Ambati Rayudu – 2015
Ambati Rayudu is remembered for the drama surrounding his exclusion from India’s 2019 World Cup squad and his subsequent retirement. However, few recall that Rayudu was part of India’s 2015 World Cup squad. After a strong IPL performance and consistent form in domestic cricket, he was selected for the 2015 WC. Despite being included, Rayudu didn’t get a chance to play, as India stuck to their unchanged lineup throughout the tournament.
4. Stuart Binny – 2015
All-rounder Stuart Binny was another surprising inclusion in India’s 2015 World Cup squad. Chosen for his seam-bowling and all-round skills, Binny lacked significant experience and a strong track record. As a result, MS Dhoni never picked him in the playing XI throughout the tournament, with Suresh Raina and Ravindra Jadeja fulfilling the all-rounder roles instead.
3. Robin Uthappa – 2007
Robin Uthappa is celebrated for his T20 performances, but few remember that he was also part of India’s 2007 ODI World Cup squad in the West Indies, where India was eliminated in the first round. Uthappa played in 3 matches during the tournament, managing to score only 30 runs.
2. Axar Patel – 2015
Left-arm spinner Axar Patel was also part of India’s 2015 World Cup squad in Australia. However, with no injuries to key players and the bowlers performing consistently throughout the tournament, Axar didn’t get an opportunity to play in any of the matches.
1. Parthiv Patel – 2003
Parthiv Patel made his Test debut at just 17 in 2002 and his ODI debut in 2003. He was included in India’s 2003 World Cup squad as a back-up wicketkeeper, missing his high-school board exams to travel to South Africa. However, Parthiv didn’t play in any matches during the 2003 World Cup.