Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma faces a dilemma as he selects the playing XI for the upcoming ODI series against West Indies. With the Test series concluded, the focus shifts to white-ball cricket, and Sharma must make some challenging decisions, particularly regarding the choice between Axar Patel and Shardul Thakur.
While the ODI team is mostly settled, there are a few spots up for grabs, such as the wicketkeeper position and the choice of the third spinner. One interesting possibility is Rohit Sharma opting for Sanju Samson over Ishan Kishan. However, the decision between Axar and Kuldeep poses a more complex challenge for the skipper.
The top order remains unchanged, with the formidable opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. Unlike the Test series, there will be no experimentation with the opening duo. Gill dropped to number 3 in red-ball cricket to accommodate Yashasvi Jaiswal’s inclusion in the side.
Virat Kohli retains his position at number 3, while Suryakumar Yadav slots in at number 4. This will be a crucial opportunity for Yadav to prove himself in ODI cricket and secure his spot in the playing XI for the World Cup, especially with the return of Shreyas Iyer looming.
In the wicketkeeping department, KL Rahul is the designated choice for the ODIs. However, with the Asia Cup and ICC World Cup on the horizon, Rohit Sharma may use this series to test out both Samson and Kishan, considering their potential as future options.
India requires strong finishers in the lower order, and therefore, the team is likely to field three all-rounders. Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja are automatic choices in the playing XI, as they both provide a well-rounded skill set. The question remains regarding the third all-rounder – will it be Axar Patel or Shardul Thakur? Sharma’s decision will heavily depend on the pitch conditions. If it favors slower bowling, Axar Patel may receive the nod ahead of Thakur.
In the absence of Mohammed Shami, Mohammed Siraj is expected to lead the pace attack. He will be supported by the promising talent of Umran Malik. Hardik Pandya will also contribute with his bowling skills, and depending on the pitch’s nature, a fourth pacer like Shardul Thakur might be included.
When it comes to spin, Yuzvendra Chahal will not feature in the ODI plans, leaving Kuldeep Yadav as the preferred choice to start, given his previous ODI performances. Yadav will be supported by Jadeja and Axar in weaving the spin magic for the Indian team.
The chosen Indian ODI squad comprises Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya (Vice-Captain), Shardul Thakur, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, Kuldeep Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Mohammed Siraj, Umran Malik, and Mukesh Kumar.
With the series against West Indies on the horizon, Rohit Sharma faces the tough task of finalizing the playing XI that will bring success to the Indian team. The chosen players will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and stake their claim for future tournaments, including the highly anticipated World Cup.
