In a notable turn of events, star Indian batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have expressed their readiness to make a comeback to T20 Internationals. Despite their absence from T20Is since the 2022 T20 World Cup, the dynamic duo has communicated their availability for selection to BCCI in the shortest format.
The upcoming BCCI selection committee meeting on Friday will play a pivotal role in determining the squad for the three T20 matches against Afghanistan and the initial two Tests against England. The T20 series against Afghanistan is scheduled to commence on January 11, while the extensive five-match Test series against England kicks off on January 25.
With the T20 World Cup on the horizon in June, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma’s decision to make themselves available for T20Is, as per Indian Express, adds a layer of intrigue to the team dynamics. The limited-overs maestros are keen to contribute their prowess to the team’s success in the shorter format.
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli in Afghan series?
However, the absence of Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav due to injuries poses a captaincy challenge for the selection committee in the upcoming T20 series. The committee will need to appoint a new captain for the T20 fixtures against Afghanistan.
In an additional development, the selection committee is contemplating resting the fast-bowling duo of Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah for the upcoming matches against Afghanistan. Following their impactful performances in India’s emphatic victory over South Africa in Cape Town, the management aims to preserve the fitness of Siraj and Bumrah for the impending Test series against England.
The presence of selectors SS Das, Salil Ankola, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar in Cape Town underscores the significance of the ongoing series and the strategic decisions being weighed for the team’s future endeavors. As the anticipation builds, Indian cricket fans await the official announcement of the selected squad, eager to witness the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in T20 International action.