Picture Credit: BCCI
Following the 3-0 series defeat in ODIs at the hands of South Africa, Team India is now getting ready for their next assignment, which is to host West Indies in an exciting white-ball series at home. The bilateral series, which will include 3 ODIs and 3 T20Is, will take place from February 6 to 20. Considering India's dismal show against the Proteas, there could be a few changes in personnel which are likely to take place.
Ravichandran Ashwin was one player who had a rather average series. The off-spinner could only scalp 1 wicket in 2 ODIs and had a disappointing economy of around 6.05. His return to India's 50-over side did not turn out to be as effective as expected which is why his position in the side has also come under radar.
And now, it is being reported that the 35-year-old is set to miss the home series against West Indies. However, the reason behind the same is not his performance. According to Cricbuzz, the off-spinner is carrying an injury and is undergoing treatment which is why he won't be available for selection.
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Notably, the report also claims that the veteran spinner has been brought into India's white-ball set-up as per a long term strategy set by captain Rohit Sharma, coach Rahul Dravid and selectors in consideration of upcoming World Cups (T20 WC 2022, ODI WC 2023).
Meanwhile, Rohit Sharma is fully fit and is set to return to the side as captain for the WI series. This will be Hitman's first assignment as permanent white-ball captain of India.
Two exciting pacers also in contention
With Jasprit Bumrah likely to be rested and Bhuvneshwar Kumar's place in side under scrutiny, it has been reported that two pacers - Harshal Patel and Avesh Khan - could be in contention for selection in India's squad.
While Harshal Patel did impress in the 2 T20Is he played against New Zealand, Avesh Khan is yet to make debut for India. Since the mega auctions might also happen around the same time, the duo would be hoping to get an opportunity to show their skills and abilities to national selectors as well as franchise owners.
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Although the selection committee were originally scheduled to have a meeting on January 25, it is now slated to take place in the next couple of days.