In a surprising move, India has made significant changes to their 15-member squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia. With the ICC World Cup on the horizon, the team management has opted to rest some of the regulars, including captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and Kuldeep Yadav, for the first two ODIs. KL Rahul will take the helm in Rohit’s absence.
For the third ODI, the selectors have chosen the same squad that will represent India at the World Cup, with the addition of experienced players R Ashwin and Washington Sundar.
Ashwin Returns to the ODI Scene
R Ashwin, who last played an ODI over 18 months ago, has been included in the squad. His selection serves as an opportunity for the team management to prepare him, along with Washington Sundar, as potential replacements for Axar Patel. Axar Patel has been sidelined due to a left quadriceps strain that ruled him out of the Asia Cup final.
Ashwin has been diligently training at the NCA (National Cricket Academy) over the past week, under the guidance of spin consultant Sairaj Bahutule. This commitment to conditioning and skill development showcases his determination to contribute to the team’s success.
Chief selector Ajit Agarkar expressed his hopes for Axar Patel’s swift recovery but emphasized the importance of having options like Ashwin and Washington in case of unforeseen circumstances. The selectors believe that Ashwin’s wealth of experience makes him a valuable asset.
Rohit Sharma on Ashwin’s Selection
Rohit Sharma, when asked about the potential challenges of Ashwin’s return after a long break from the ODI format, stated that game-time and experience are paramount for players like Ashwin. He believes that Ashwin’s mental acumen and experience will be more crucial than physical readiness. Rohit pointed out that Ashwin has been actively involved in cricket, having played Test matches and the TNPL (Tamil Nadu Premier League), albeit in different formats.
The upcoming ODI series against Australia will provide an opportunity to assess Ashwin’s current form and readiness for the World Cup.
Two Different Squads for Short ODI Series
Ajit Agarkar shed light on the rationale behind naming two different squads for a short ODI series. He stressed the importance of providing senior players with a “mental break,” considering the quick turnaround from the Asia Cup campaign to the first ODI. Agarkar reiterated that all players would be available for the third game, which will feature the World Cup squad.
This strategic decision enables players on the bench to gain valuable experience and ensures that the team remains competitive despite resting key personnel.
Opening Options with Rohit’s Absence
With Rohit Sharma taking a break, India has the choice of selecting either Ishan Kishan or Ruturaj Gaikwad as an opener. Gaikwad, who is set to captain India’s Asian Games contingent, will join the touring group immediately after the second ODI in Indore on September 24.
Tilak Varma’s Opportunity
The Australia series, starting on September 22, serves as India’s final ODI assignment before the World Cup. It presents a golden opportunity for highly-rated middle-order batsman Tilak Varma to showcase his skills at the highest level. Varma has been included in the squad for the first two games.
India’s Squad for Australia Series
For the First Two ODIs:
- KL Rahul (capt)
- Ravindra Jadeja (vice-capt)
- Shubman Gill
- Ruturaj Gaikwad
- Shreyas Iyer
- Ishan Kishan
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Shardul Thakur
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Mohammed Shami
- Tilak Varma
- Prasidh Krishna
- R Ashwin
- Washington Sundar
For the Third ODI:
- Rohit Sharma (capt)
- Hardik Pandya (vice-capt)
- Shubman Gill
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul
- Ishan Kishan
- Suryakumar Yadav
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shardul Thakur
- Jasprit Bumrah
- Mohammed Siraj
- Mohammed Shami
- Virat Kohli
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Axar Patel (subject to fitness)
- R Ashwin
- Washington Sundar
As India gears up for this crucial ODI series against Australia, the spotlight will be on the new faces and experienced hands who aim to make a mark in the lead-up to the ICC World Cup.
