The Indian cricket board, BCCI, has announced the squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar series, set to kick off on November 22. Notable exclusions from the 18-member squad include Mohammed Shami, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav.
India is set to field a robust team for the five-match Test series, with a few new faces being given an opportunity. Three uncapped Test players – opener Abhimanyu Easwaran, paceman Harshit Rana, and all-rounder Nitish Reddy have earned their spots in the squad.
Easwaran has caught the selectors’ eyes with his consistent performances in domestic cricket, amassing over 7500 runs at an impressive average of nearly 50. His recent string of four centuries in as many first-class matches has earned him a deserved place in the team.
Nitish Reddy, a rising star from Sunrisers Hyderabad, has already showcased his talent in T20Is against Bangladesh. Though uncapped in Tests, he has shown promise with both the bat and ball.
Likewise, Harshit Rana, who was also part of the T20I squad against Bangladesh, finally gets his chance in the Test arena. Despite being uncapped in all formats, Rana’s selection signifies the confidence the selectors have in his potential.
On the flip side, senior pacer Shami is sidelined as he recuperates from ankle surgery, while Kuldeep Yadav’s absence is attributed to a long-standing groin issue that requires specialized treatment.
The updated squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy features a mix of experienced players and talented newcomers, with Rohit Sharma leading the side. The reserves include Mukesh Kumar, Navdeep Saini, and Khaleel Ahmed.
Overall, the squad promises a blend of youth and experience, as India gears up to take on the challenging Australian team in the prestigious Test series.
