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As cricket fans eagerly await India’s next international fixture, the anticipation for the squad announcement for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh is building up. Scheduled to begin on September 19 at Chennai’s MA Chidambaram Stadium, this two-match series marks the first red-ball assignment for India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir since taking charge.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the squad next week. Rohit Sharma is confirmed to lead the team, while Virat Kohli will make his return to Test cricket after a hiatus since January. This series is crucial for Team India as they seek to maintain their strong record in home conditions.
Possible Inclusions in the Squad
Several players are in contention for spots in the squad. Sarfaraz Khan, who has been knocking on the door with consistent performances in domestic cricket, and Dhruv Jurel, are among the potential inclusions. Both players could bring fresh energy to the side, with Sarfaraz’s prolific run-scoring in the Ranji Trophy and Jurel’s emerging talent making them prime candidates.
Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill, two of India’s most promising young batsmen, are also expected to be included. Both have shown their mettle in recent matches, with Jaiswal impressing in the West Indies and Gill continuing his steady rise in international cricket. Their inclusion would strengthen the top order and provide stability against Bangladesh’s pace attack.
The Return of Key Players
One of the most significant aspects of this squad announcement is the expected return of Rishabh Pant. The dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman has been out of action since a car accident earlier this year, but his recovery has been remarkable. Pant’s inclusion would be a major boost for India, especially given his match-winning ability in the Test format.
All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is also likely to return to the squad, providing balance with both bat and ball. Jadeja’s experience on turning tracks in India could prove invaluable against a Bangladesh side that has historically struggled in such conditions.
The Spin Department and Pace Battery
India’s spin department is expected to feature the usual suspects, with Ravichandran Ashwin and Kuldeep Yadav likely to be the primary spinners. Both have been exceptional in Indian conditions, and their presence could make life difficult for the Bangladesh batsmen.
In the pace department, Mohammed Siraj and Mukesh Kumar are strong contenders for selection. Siraj, who has been in excellent form, will lead the pace attack, while Mukesh Kumar, known for his consistency, could be given a chance to prove his mettle at the highest level.
The squad announcement will provide clarity on whether other players like Axar Patel and Arshdeep Singh, who are also in the reckoning, will make the cut. With India’s bench strength looking formidable, the team management has plenty of options to consider.
As the countdown to the series begins, all eyes will be on the BCCI’s squad announcement next week. With a mix of experienced players and young talents, India will aim to start their home season on a strong note against Bangladesh.