Asia Cup Squad Selection Process
The Indian cricket team is gearing up for the Asia Cup, following a successful tour of England. According to a report by PTI, the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is expected to finalize the squad on August 19 or 20. This decision hinges on the medical bulletin from the Centre of Excellence’s Sports Science team, which will include updates on players like skipper Suryakumar Yadav, who has resumed batting practice in Bengaluru.
Top-Order Dilemma
The BCCI selection committee faces a challenging task in balancing the squad without disrupting the current setup. The top five, comprising Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, and Hardik Pandya, have shown strong performances. Abhishek Sharma is currently ranked as the world’s No. 1 T20 batter in the latest ICC rankings. Sanju Samson has also impressed with his dual role as a batsman and wicketkeeper. Despite Shubman Gill’s excellent form in Tests and IPL, finding space for emerging talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sai Sudharsan remains difficult.
Wicketkeeper Selection
Sanju Samson is expected to be the primary wicketkeeper. The competition for the second keeper’s position is between Jitesh Sharma and Dhruv Jurel. Jurel participated in the last T20 series, while Jitesh showcased his skills as a finisher during RCB’s IPL victory.
Injury Concerns and All-Rounder Options
Hardik Pandya continues as India’s preferred white-ball seam-bowling all-rounder. However, Nitish Kumar Reddy’s injury during the England series may prevent his participation. Shivam Dube, who performed well against England, is likely to secure a spot. Spin-bowling all-rounders Axar Patel and Washington Sundar are also expected to be included.
Seam-Bowling Attack
The seam-bowling lineup sees Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh as certainties. The third slot is contested between Prasidh Krishna, who took 25 wickets in the last IPL season, and Harshit Rana, known for his powerful deliveries.
Potential Squad Members
The likely squad includes Suryakumar Yadav (captain), Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Harshit Rana/Prasidh Krishna, Hardik Pandya, and Jitesh Sharma/Dhruv Jurel.