The Indian men’s selection committee is set to meet on Tuesday, January 30, to deliberate on the composition of the Indian squad for the remaining three Tests against England. After India’s 28-run defeat in the Hyderabad Test, the team, led by Rohit Sharma, faces the challenge of turning the series around.
It is anticipated that the panel will largely retain the current squad with occasional alterations. Notably, Sarfaraz Khan, Washington Sundar, and Sourabh Kumar have been called up for the second Test starting on February 2 at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Sarfaraz and Sourabh have received their maiden call-ups, showcasing impressive performances for India A against England Lions. Sundar, returning to Test cricket after 2021, adds depth to the squad.
However, the team has suffered setbacks with KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja ruled out of the second Test due to injuries. Rahul has a hamstring injury, while Jadeja is struggling with a right quadriceps issue. Their absence poses challenges for India as they aim to bounce back in the series.
The return of Virat Kohli for the remainder of the series remains uncertain. Kohli had withdrawn from the initial two matches due to ‘personal reasons’, with Rajat Patidar named as his replacement. Whether Kohli will participate in the final three matches will be decided after the selectors’ discussions.
Meanwhile, discussions continue regarding Shubman Gill’s position in the team, with indications suggesting he is unlikely to be dropped. The potential comeback of Cheteshwar Pujara is also a point of interest. However, Mohammed Shami is unlikely to feature in the upcoming matches as he is currently in London.
The upcoming Tests are scheduled to be held in Rajkot, Ranchi, and Dharamsala, providing India with opportunities to reverse the series in their favor.
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