Team India is currently on a break, but towards the end of this month, they will resume playing matches as England tours India. The series will kick off with five T20 matches, followed by an ODI series. The BCCI is expected to announce the squad soon. Let’s take a look at how Team India could shape up under Suryakumar Yadav’s captaincy, focusing only on the T20 series.
Abhishek Sharma, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Sanju Samson Could Be Openers
In the five-match T20 series against England, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Abhishek Sharma, and Sanju Samson are strong contenders for the opening slots. Gaikwad missed the previous series against South Africa, during which Sanju Samson opened the innings and scored runs consistently. With both Abhishek and Gaikwad available this time, it will be interesting to see if captain Suryakumar Yadav promotes Sanju Samson to open again or shifts him lower down the order. However, Samson is almost certain to be in the squad and is likely to be the first-choice wicketkeeper.
Middle-Order Players Under Suryakumar Yadav’s Captaincy
In the middle order, Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma are expected to play crucial roles. Tilak Varma was in sensational form during the previous series, scoring back-to-back centuries. Additionally, Hardik Pandya and Rinku Singh are likely to strengthen the lower middle order. Axar Patel will also play a vital role, contributing with both bat and ball.
For the second wicketkeeper position, Jitesh Sharma is the frontrunner. It remains to be seen whether the selection committee considers Ishan Kishan, who has shown promising recent form. Ramandeep Singh could also emerge as a good option for Team India.
Bowling Attack for the Series
In the bowling department, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Yash Dayal, and Harshit Rana are likely to be included. While this lineup may seem slightly short on experience, Axar Patel, Hardik Pandya, and Ramandeep Singh, who can bowl as well, provide additional options.
The first match of the series is scheduled for January 22, and the squad announcement is expected by January 12. It will also be interesting to see who is named the vice-captain of the team.
India’s Probable Squad for T20 Series Against England
- Captain: Suryakumar Yadav
- Batsmen: Ruturaj Gaikwad, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya
- All-Rounders: Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh
- Wicketkeepers: Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma
- Bowlers: Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakravarthy, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Yash Dayal, Harshit Rana