As we await the announcement of the main squad for India’s five-match Test series to England, sources close to the development have confirmed that Kuldeep Yadav is most likely to return to the Indian Test team. With how the left-arm wrist spinner has been bowling in the recent past, he could be the game changer for the Indian team as was argued by former Aussie captain Michael Clarke.
With Jasprit Bumrah likely only playing a maximum of three Test matches in the series, India’s pace attack selection becomes crucial. In the absence of Bumrah, a name that had cropped up was Mohammad Shami. But now, top sources have revealed that the fast bowler’s inclusion in the team could be in doubt. At this point, selectors are not convinced about whether or not Shami can bowl 18 overs a day. As reported by RevSportz earlier, Shami’s inclusion depends on how much load his body can take and whether he can withstand the rigours of Test cricket, it was also reported that Shami might be referred to NCA and added to the squad later. Although, his selection remains in doubt.
RevSportz had been reporting that selectors are set on not looking back while selecting the team, even though there will be a lack of experience in the squad, the selectors will look to the future. Even when it comes to picking a captain, the only criteria is longevity, which is why Shubman Gill is the certainty, ahead of Bumrah. The selectors are not looking for any stop-gap options, which has now ruled out Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara from making the main squad.
Shardul Thakur is another name that has made a comeback, having already been added to the India A squad, sources say his selection in the main squad still hangs in the balance. The chances of the all-rounder making the cut are still 50-50.
In every sense the meeting is going to be interesting. Also Watch out for Karun Nair, Anshul Kamboj and the choice of vice captain.