IND vs ENG: 3 Big Names Who May Be Dropped After Rohit And Kohli
With the Indian squad for England tour set to be announced soon, major changes are expected following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.
India will travel under a new captain, and the middle order looks noticeably fragile in Kohli's absence. The selectors are now eyeing a larger overhaul, with five more players likely to be dropped from the squad.
3 Big Names Who May Be Dropped
One of the most notable names in doubt is Mohammed Shami. The experienced pacer hasn't played a Test since June 2023, and concerns over his fitness and match readiness could keep him out of the touring party.
Harshit Rana, who was part of the squad during the Australian tour, failed to make a strong impression. With fierce competition among emerging pacers, Arshdeep Singh or Yash Dayal may be preferred for English conditions.
Sarfaraz Khan, despite his strong performances in domestic cricket, seems to be slipping out of contention. The middle-order reshuffle is expected to favor more consistent performers at the international level, limiting his chances of inclusion.
As India steps into a new era, the upcoming England tour may mark the beginning of a major generational shift in Indian cricket.
India A Squad Announced for England Tour
BCCI has announced the India A squad for the upcoming tour of England, featuring two four-day matches against the England Lions starting May 30. Abhimanyu Easwaran has been named captain of the side.
Karun Nair returns to the squad, while Ishan Kishan also makes a comeback. Consistent domestic performers like Nitish Kumar Reddy, Mukesh Kumar, and Akash Deep have been rewarded with selection. Harsh Dubey has also earned a call-up.
In the bowling unit, Harshit Rana, Anshul Kamboj, and Tushar Deshpande will lead the pace attack alongside Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, and Khalil Ahmed. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel have secured their places. Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan are expected to join the team ahead of the second match to strengthen the batting lineup. They will not be available for the first fixture.
India A Squad for England Tour:
Batters/Wicketkeepers: Abhimanyu Easwaran (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Karun Nair, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sarfaraz Khan, Ishan Kishan, Dhruv Jurel, Manav Suthar
All-rounders: Nitish Kumar Reddy, Tanush Kotian, Shardul Thakur
Pacers: Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, Harshit Rana, Anshul Kamboj, Khalil Ahmed, Tushar Deshpande
Spinners: Harsh Dubey
To join before second match: Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan
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