The selection committee of the Board of Control for Cricket in India is set to meet in Guwahati on Tuesday to finalise India’s squads for the upcoming series against Afghanistan, which will feature a one-off Test match followed by a three-match ODI series.
With preparations for the next ODI World Cup gradually beginning and a transition phase looming for Indian cricket, selectors are expected to deliberate on several crucial matters, including player fitness, workload management, and leadership responsibilities.
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One of the major discussion points ahead of the meeting is the fitness of Rohit Sharma, who reportedly struggled during the recent season of the Indian Premier League while representing the Mumbai Indians.
Meanwhile, the position of Rishabh Pant as vice-captain in the Test format is also believed to be under review. Reports suggest that the team management is considering whether relieving Pant of deputy duties could help him focus more effectively on his wicketkeeping and aggressive batting roles.
The workload management of premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah is another key concern for selectors. The fast bowler may be rested for parts of the series to keep him fresh for major upcoming international assignments. Discussions are also expected around Mohammed Siraj, with selectors assessing his recent performances and bowling workload before taking a final decision on his inclusion.
Despite ongoing debates over other players, Virat Kohli is expected to remain a key figure in India’s ODI setup. His experience and recent form continue to make him one of the pillars of the batting line-up.
Selectors are also likely to assess Hardik Pandya’s physical readiness and his ability to contribute consistently with the ball in the ODI format. Pandya has not played an ODI for India since March last year.
In the spin department, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel is expected to deliberate between experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel for the left-arm spin all-rounder role in ODIs.
Additionally, the names of Washington Sundar and rising talent Nitish Kumar Reddy are reportedly under active consideration. Sundar provides an off-spin option along with dependable batting ability, while Reddy is being viewed as a promising fast-bowling all-round prospect for the future.
The final squads for the Afghanistan series are expected to be officially announced by the BCCI later in the evening.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
