The selection committee, led by Shiv Sunder Das, and head coach Rahul Dravid are expected to explore new options as they prepare for the next WTC cycle. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Mukesh Kumar are in contention to replace the underperforming duo, with the focus shifting towards a balanced blend of youth and experience.
Pujara and Umesh Yadav’s Struggles Raise Concerns
Cheteshwar Pujara and Umesh Yadav, who have been inconsistent for an extended period, have emerged as potential weak links in the Indian Test team. The selectors and team management are aiming for a balance between youth and experience, considering the long-term perspective and the two-year cycle ahead.
Former national selector Devang Gandhi believes that young talent like Yashasvi Jaiswal deserves an opportunity at the international level. Jaiswal’s impressive performances in domestic cricket, including double centuries in Ranji Trophy, Irani Trophy, and Duleep Trophy, demonstrate his temperament and potential for growth.
The Need for A Tour Programs and Identifying Ready Players
Another former national selector expressed concern over the absence of an A Tour program since the tour of Bangladesh in December. This lack of exposure makes it difficult to assess which players are ready for the highest level. In the past, consistent A tours and shadow series helped identify talents like Mayank Agarwal, Rishabh Pant, Hanuma Vihari, Mohammed Siraj, and Navdeep Saini.
However, with the current situation, it becomes challenging to determine who is prepared. The selector pointed out that seamer Mukesh Kumar appears to be in form, but he isn’t an express pacer, limiting the options in the fast-bowling department.
Leadership Concerns and Vice-Captaincy Options
With KL Rahul’s return from a thigh surgery uncertain, he is no longer being considered for a leadership role. The question arises whether Rohit Sharma, given his current form and fitness, will continue playing Test cricket for another two years and complete the next WTC cycle, even when he reaches the age of 38.
Additionally, if Pujara is phased out, who would be the better choice as vice-captain for the upcoming year? The West Indies series could serve as a platform for a young player’s initiation into Test cricket against a relatively inexperienced side.
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The possibility of grooming Shubman Gill, at 23 years of age, for future leadership responsibilities has been considered. However, some suggest exploring options like Ravindra Jadeja, who possesses a fantastic cricketing acumen, or even Ajinkya Rahane for a short period until Gill establishes himself in the Test XI.
Considering Ashwin’s Leadership Potential
Devang Gandhi proposed considering the experienced Ravichandran Ashwin for the vice-captaincy role. Ashwin’s cricketing knowledge and skills make him a viable candidate, despite concerns about his performances overseas.
Gandhi drew a parallel with Rahane, who was dropped from the playing XI despite being the vice-captain. This highlights that even Ashwin could be a suitable choice, or Rahane could be considered temporarily until Gill solidifies his place in the Test XI.