(AFP Photo)
India’s captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are slated to make their comeback in the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka. According to a report from the Indian Express, the selectors have acceded to Gautam Gambhir’s request to include the seasoned pair, marking Gambhir’s debut series as Team India’s Head Coach.
The tour will encompass a three-match T20I series followed by a three-match ODI series, scheduled to be held in Pallekele and Colombo respectively. The selectors have chosen not to include Jasprit Bumrah, the premier pace bowler, opting instead to rest him for the brief series.
Hardik Pandya, India’s prominent all-rounder, will feature exclusively in the T20I series and will sit out of the 50-over matches. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant, the left-handed wicketkeeper-batter, is expected to be named in both the T20I and ODI squads.
This series heralds a fresh start for Team India under Gautam Gambhir’s leadership, aiming to initiate a positive trajectory and elevate Indian cricket to new heights.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli last appeared together in the ODI squad during India’s defeat against Australia in the 2023 World Cup final in Ahmedabad. Despite that setback, both players rebounded strongly and played pivotal roles in India’s success in the T20I World Cup. Subsequently, they, along with Ravindra Jadeja, retired from the format, marking the end of an illustrious era.
Now, with Gautam Gambhir at the helm, Indian cricket looks forward to a rejuvenation, focusing on nurturing new talents and continuing its legacy.
