The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) unveiled the 16-player roster for India’s upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, sparking excitement with the return of star opener Rohit Sharma and prolific batter Virat Kohli. This marks their comeback to the T20I setup since the conclusion of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, signaling a crucial development ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024.
_ NEWS _#TeamIndia‘s squad for @IDFCFIRSTBank T20I series against Afghanistan announced _
Rohit Sharma (C), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav,_
— BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2024
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Leadership Dynamics: Rohit Sharma to Captain
Rohit Sharma is set to lead the Indian squad in the T20Is against Afghanistan, with Jitesh Sharma and Sanju Samson entrusted with wicketkeeping responsibilities. The team boasts a strong contingent of all-rounders, including Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, and Axar Patel.
Bowling Arsenal: Spinners and Pacers in Focus
The bowling lineup features leg spinners Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav, complemented by the pace trio of Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, and Mukesh Kumar. This combination aims to provide versatility and depth to the bowling attack.
Batting Prowess: A Young and Dynamic Lineup
Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Tilak Varma form the batting core of the squad, showcasing a blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Unfortunately, Suryakumar Yadav, who led the team in the T20Is against South Africa, is sidelined due to an ankle injury, emphasizing the need for adaptability in the lineup.
T20I Series Schedule: Mohali, Indore, and Bengaluru
The T20I series against Afghanistan is scheduled to kick off on January 11 in Mohali, followed by the second match on January 14 in Indore, and the series will conclude on January 17 in Bengaluru. This series serves as India’s final bilateral T20I engagement before the highly anticipated T20 World Cup, commencing on June 1. The series promises to be a crucial testing ground and preparation phase for the Indian team as they gear up for the global spectacle.
India Squad: Rohit Sharma (C), S Gill, Y Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, W Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar
