(Source X)
India, fresh off their T20 World Cup triumph in Barbados, are gearing up for a thrilling three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, commencing on July 27 at the iconic Pallekele International Cricket Stadium. Following the retirements of stalwarts like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja from T20Is, and with Jasprit Bumrah set to rest after his stellar Player of the Tournament performance in the T20 World Cup 2024, India’s squad for this white-ball tour of Sri Lanka is eagerly anticipated.
The BCCI selectors are poised to unveil India’s squad on Wednesday, July 17. Reports suggest that Suryakumar Yadav, the former world No. 1 T20I batter, is the frontrunner to assume leadership as India’s new T20I captain.
As anticipation builds ahead of the squad announcement, let’s take a sneak peek at the likely composition of India’s squad for the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka.
Captaincy: If reports hold true, the experienced Suryakumar Yadav is set to lead India in the upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka. Known for his adept middle-order batting, the 33-year-old has captained in seven T20Is, securing victories in five of them, making him a reliable choice to steer the team.
Batting Line-up: The opening pair for India in the series is likely to feature the dynamic duo of Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Rinku Singh, noted for his finishing prowess, seems a strong contender for selection. Eyes will be on Abhishek Sharma, who notched the fastest T20I century by an Indian, and Ruturaj Gaikwad, to see if they earn spots in the squad.
Wicketkeepers: Rishabh Pant, India’s primary wicketkeeper-batsman in T20Is, returns after a well-deserved break following his consistent performance in the T20 World Cup 2024. Sanju Samson, displaying his prowess with a fifty against Zimbabwe, is expected to be his deputy for the series.
All-rounders: The triumphant trio from the T20 World Cup, comprising Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, and Axar Patel, will bolster India’s all-round capabilities against Sri Lanka. Washington Sundar, recognized for his recent Player of the Series showing versus Zimbabwe, stands poised to contribute as well.
Spin Department: Kuldeep Yadav is set to lead India’s spin contingent in the T20I series, with Ravi Bishnoi likely to be preferred over Yuzvendra Chahal as the second spinner, given his previous success as the top-ranked T20I bowler.
Pace Attack: With Jasprit Bumrah resting, Arshdeep Singh will spearhead India’s pace battery in Sri Lanka. Supported by Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, and Avesh Khan, the pace attack promises to be potent and versatile for the series ahead.
India’s likely squad: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Hardik Pandya, Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant (WK), Sanju Samson, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Avesh Khan
