New Delhi: Having already booked a place in Sunday's final, India will have literally no business meddling with their form, even if the fixture involves an unheralded outfit like the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
But giving key players their deserved breaks ahead of crucial ties have, most of the time, proven to be a wise decision. It also allows the team, besides the regular XIs, to knit well as other fringe members will get chances to take the field and contribute, by playing.
And given the widespread pre-match talks of India fielding a different XI, here are five players who are likely to not only take the field but also make impacts.
Yes, considering the nature of the fixture, the selection is India-heavy:
Virat Kohli: In case of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who is nursing a back injury, taking a break, then Virat Kohli will lead the side. Like his batting, it's always been a delight to watch the flambouyant Indian.
Hardik Pandya: The young all-rounder will once again play a crucial role, with both bat and ball. After three outstanding outings, against Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, the 22-year-old can dominate the Associate team.
Harbhajan Singh: The seasoned spinner has been warming the bench, but he will cherish any opportunity to bowl for India. If Harbhajan Singh plays, then it will be a huge ask for the minnows to contain the Turbanator.
Jasprit Bumrah: The pace sensation has had fitness issues, but he is expected to play and once again lead the pace attack. Against an unfacied batting unit, Jasprit Bumrah will be lethal.
Amjad Javed: The UAE skipper has impressed everyone with his bowling. The right-arm medium pace bowler has so far picked-up eight wickets in three matches. And he will one again be the main threat for India.
