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Abhishek Sharma Out, Gaikwad In; India's 3 Probable Squad Changes For England T20Is

Debashis Sarangi∙ Updated: Jan 11 2025, 7:35 PM

Gaikwad could replace Abhishek Sharma in T20I squad [Source: @TheCricCorner, @Saabir_Saabu01/X]Gaikwad could replace Abhishek Sharma in T20I squad [Source: @TheCricCorner, @Saabir_Saabu01/X]

After a disastrous defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, India are getting ready to face England in a much-awaited white-ball series at home. The tour comprises eight white-ball matches, including five T20Is and three ODIs and commences on January 22. 

According to the latest reports, the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee will announce the T20I squad on or before January 12. As the hosts gear up for the English challenge, here are some bold changes they can consider bringing to their T20I squad from the South Africa series. 

Abhishek Sharma Out, Ruturaj Gaikwad In

  • Explosive Indian batter Abhishek Sharma has had an underwhelming run in T20 Internationals. Abhishek, who earned his maiden T20I call-up for the Zimbabwe series, averages only 18.85 in his previous seven outings in the format. 
  • Therefore, considering his inconsistent run, India might bring Ruturaj Gaikwad back into the T20I setup. He has amassed 633 runs in 20 T20I innings at an average of 39.56 and a blistering strike rate of 143.54. Also, given that he won't be picked for the Champions Trophy, India could give him an opportunity in the five-match T20I series. 

Hardik Pandya Out, Nitish Reddy In

  • Hardik Pandya has been one of India's most valuable players in white-ball cricket, thanks to his all-round prowess. 
  • However, the experienced cricketer has had several injury setbacks, which is why India might manage his workload before the all-important Champions Trophy. 
  • Pandya will get picked in the ODI team, and hence, he could be rested for the five-match T20I leg, with Nitish Reddy replacing him in the squad. 

Arshdeep Singh Out, Khaleel Ahmed In

  • Arshdeep Singh has established himself as India's strike bowler in Jasprit Bumrah's absence. The left-arm pacer can swing the ball up front and keep the opponents quiet with his excellent death bowling skills. 
  • With doubts looming over Bumrah and Shami's participation in the Champions Trophy, Arshdeep Singh is in contention for a spot in India's squad. As several Indian bowlers, including Bumrah, Shami, Mayank Yadav and Kuldeep Yadav, are struggling with injuries, India might consider preserving Arshdeep for the England ODIs and Champions Trophy. 
  • If Arshdeep is rested for the T20I leg, Khaleel Ahmed could be picked as his like-for-like replacement. The left-arm pacer participated in the Zimbabwe series and can be a threat to the English batting order, especially with the new ball.