The Test squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa will be announced by the national selection panel. The Chetan Sharma-led panel is deferring the ODIs for the time being because there are a number of decisions to be made.
Senior members of the team, including as Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara, and Ishant Sharma, are expected to get more opportunities, while Shikhar Dhawan is expected to return to the white-ball format after being snubbed for the T20 World Cup.
“The ODI captaincy is a touchy subject. After being named T20I captain, there is a school of opinion that Rohit Sharma should be given control of all white-ball cricket. But, in order to do so, the selectors must get down with Virat Kohli and determine where he is in terms of his batting. The problem would have to be handled with Rohit as well, as he is seeking clarification on his role,” a source told TOI.
India’s talent pool is deep enough that they will be able to name a huge squad for the upcoming tour. Because players cannot be flown in during epidemic times if there is an injury in the squad, it is advisable to bring as many cricketers as possible to avoid a shortage of members.
“India will play South Africa in the inaugural One-Day International on January 19.” That’s a month and a half away. The Vijay Hazare Trophy is now in progress. The selectors will be interested in seeing the talent on hand. They have made it obvious to Indian players that when they are not with the Indian team, they must compete in domestic tournaments.”
“As for Dhawan, he has been a reliable performer in one-day internationals. He’s done well in the last two series as well. A large contingent will fly to South Africa. Leaving a veteran off this trip might put his future in jeopardy. “Ishant needs more overs under his belt, and his dressing room expertise is also beneficial,” the insider said. The Test squad is currently scheduled to fly to Johannesburg on December 16. The first Test will take place on December 26.
