The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce the squad for the upcoming limited-overs tour of Australia, with significant attention focused on the potential comeback of veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The announcement, expected on Saturday, October 4, coincides with the third day of India’s Test match against the West Indies in Ahmedabad.
After stepping away from T20Is following India's 2024 T20 World Cup victory and later retiring from Test cricket, both Sharma and Kohli could be returning to the ODI format. Their inclusion would inject experience and leadership into the squad. Selectors are looking to integrate them gradually back into the team. While Rohit Sharma remains the ODI captain, there was consideration within the BCCI to have Shubman Gill take over the leadership role. However, the board seems keen on maintaining stability by backing Rohit.
The three-match ODI series is scheduled to begin on October 19 in Perth, followed by matches in Adelaide and Sydney. A five-match T20I series will commence on October 29.
Several factors are influencing the squad selection. Injuries to key players like Hardik Pandya (quadriceps) and Rishabh Pant (foot fracture) have created gaps in the team. Managing the workload of players like Shubman Gill, who is participating in the ongoing Test series against the West Indies, is another crucial consideration. With eight matches scheduled in 19 days, including travel, the selectors are keen on ensuring that key players remain fresh. Resting key players like Gill and Bumrah could be on the cards.
In light of these challenges, the selectors might explore options like Nitish Kumar Reddy or Shivam Dube to cover all-rounder roles. The selection committee may also consider left-handed opening options like Abhishek Sharma or Yashasvi Jaiswal if Gill is rested.
The return of Sharma and Kohli could provide a boost to India's ODI lineup. Kohli has been in impressive form, scoring a century against Pakistan and top-scoring in the Asia Cup semi-final. Sharma finished with a match-winning knock against New Zealand in the final.
The selection committee includes Pragyan Ojha and RP Singh, who are making their debut as selectors.
An India A squad was named for a series against Australia A, but neither Sharma nor Kohli were included. This signaled a focus on grooming new talent. Shreyas Iyer was named the captain of the India A side.
