Mumbai: The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, will meet on Saturday to choose India’s team for the Champions Trophy. However, they face two big questions: Is Jasprit Bumrah fit to play? And how can they include Yashasvi Jaiswal in the team?
Bumrah, a top fast bowler, recently had back spasms during the Sydney Test against Australia and couldn’t bowl on the last day. He has been told to rest, and his fitness is being closely checked by the BCCI’s physiotherapists. Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and captain Rohit Sharma will carefully consider Bumrah’s condition before deciding if he should play. After the meeting, they will hold a press conference to update everyone.
Rohit Sharma’s presence at the press conference suggests he will remain the captain of the ODI team, even amid doubts about his future in Test cricket after a tough tour in Australia. Recently, a 37-year-old Rohit uploaded a video on Instagram showing him practicing his famous batting moves.
There’s also a lot of talk about including 23-year-old Yashasvi Jaiswal in the squad, as he is performing well right now and could add variety with his left-handed batting. But fitting him in may be tough since Rohit, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer are already strong choices for the top order. If they want Jaiswal, it might mean leaving out KL Rahul. It’s possible Jaiswal could get a chance to play against England in the upcoming three-match ODI series instead.
The squad for the England series will also be chosen on Saturday. Rishabh Pant is likely to be the main wicketkeeper since Sanju Samson’s absence from the Vijay Hazare Trophy disappointed decision-makers. Dhruv Jurel may be considered as a backup wicketkeeper.
Senior bowler Mohammed Shami is expected to be included since he has played many domestic matches and is also part of the T20I squad against England. Another name that might be discussed is Karun Nair, who has scored an impressive 752 runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. However, finding a spot for him in the already crowded middle order, which includes all-rounder Hardik Pandya, is challenging, though he might get a chance for the one-dayers against England.
Selectors will also check on wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav’s fitness as he has been recovering from a groin injury. He has shared videos of himself bowling, which is encouraging news. Additionally, Prasidh Krishna could also be heading to Dubai with the team, as India’s campaign kicks off against Bangladesh on February 20.
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