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the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently revealed the expected squad for the T20I series against Englandbut the ODI list remains under wraps, fueling ongoing speculation. Chief Selector Ajit Agarkar made bold decisions by including several marquee names, while some players from India’s victorious 3-1 T20I series against South Africa in December abandoned. These layoffs raise questions about the team’s changing dynamics and the selectors’ approach to balancing experienced campaigners with new talent.
Key inclusions and notable omissions
While the squad has star performers who have been instrumental in India’s recent success, it is also missing some consistent contributors from the domestic circuit. Some players who shine in Indian Premier League (IPL) and showed their potential for India in previous outings failed to secure a place in the Suryakumar Yadav-led side. This decision reflects the strategy of the selectors to explore new combinations and focus on long-term planning for future global events.
With a mix of experienced players and newcomers, the squad highlights India’s depth of talent but also highlights the challenges of accommodating competent performers within a limited roster. As the team prepares under Suryakumar’s leadership, the focus is on continuing the momentum from the South Africa series while building a cohesive unit for the challenges ahead.
5 Indian players who failed to make a cut in T20I squad for England series
1. Ramandeep Singh
Ramandeep Singh was part of the Indian squad during the South Africa T20I series and had a brief opportunity to showcase his batting skills. In his lone innings, he scored 15 runs off just six balls, showing a remarkable strike rate of 250.00. Known for his power-hitting in domestic cricket and the IPL, Ramandeep can provide the much-needed acceleration in the lower middle order. However, with competition for all places tight, his absence from the England series suggests that selections may prioritize players with more experience or a proven track record at international level. .
2. Avesh Khan
Avesh Khan featured in two matches during the South Africa T20I series and made his presence felt with consistent performances. He bowled a total of 35 deliveries, claiming two wickets with a best of 2/28. Despite his economy rate of 8.74, Avesh has shown his striking skills at key moments, maintaining a respectable average of 25.50 and a strike rate of 17.50. His ability to generate runs and execute variations makes him a valuable asset in T20 cricket. However, his absence from the England series could indicate that the selectors are rotating their attack to manage workloads and exploring other options.
also READ: BCCI announces India squad for England T20Is, Mohammed Shami returns
3. Jitesh Sharma
Jitesh Sharmaa dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, was part of the Indian squad during the South Africa series but did not get a chance to showcase his skills. Known for his explosive hitting in domestic cricket and the IPL, Jitesh’s ability to accelerate in the middle overs makes him a contender for a place in the playing XI. Despite his strong domestic and IPL performances, he faces stiff competition from other keepers in the national team setup. His absence could be the result of selectors targeting players who can be part-time or add versatility to the squad. However, his aggressive batting remains an asset for India in the shortest format.
4. Vyshak Vijaykumar
Vyshak Vijaykumara promising pacer who impressed during the IPL, was included in the squad for South Africa but did not play. Known for his ability to swing the ball and maintain a disciplined line and length, he provides a reliable bowling option in the powerplay and death overs. However, with the return of senior bowlers viz Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Shamihe finds himself out of the mix for the England series. Vyshak remains an exciting prospect for India and can return to the national fold with consistent performances in domestic and IPL tournaments.
5. Yash Dayal
Yash Dayala left-arm seamer, added variety to India’s bowling attack and was part of the squad for the South Africa series. He brings the ability to get movement and bounce, especially on surfaces that help the seamers. Unfortunately, Yash could not make his debut during the South Africa tour, and his exclusion from the England series can be attributed to the competition among India’s pace bowlers. The selectors may have opted for players with more experience, but Yash’s potential makes him an important option for the future.
Special mention: Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj GaikwadHis absence from the 15-man squad for the England T20I series has raised many eyebrows. Known for his consistency and charm, Gaikwad has an impressive T20I record, averaging close to 40 with a strike rate of 143.53. He excelled in his last series against Zimbabweshowing his versatility by performing as an opener and middle-order batter. Despite these achievements, those who choose seem to favor other options, perhaps because of the composition of the group or the management of the work. Gaikwad remains a key player for India’s future, with his ability to adapt to different batting roles making him a strong contender for a comeback.
