The eagerly anticipated ODI series between India and South Africa is set to begin on November 30, with Team India's roster unveiled this Sunday. KL Rahul will captivate the 15-member squad, as Shubman Gill is sidelined with a neck injury, placing the responsibility of leadership squarely on Rahul's shoulders. Let’s delve into the key insights of this selection...
Tilak and Ruturaj Seize the Spotlight
Tilak Varma and Ruturaj Gaikwad make a thrilling comeback to the ODI scene after a substantial hiatus. Ruturaj's recent stellar performances for India A had already stirred expectations of his inclusion. Similarly, Tilak Varma has consistently earned management's trust since the Asia Cup final.
With Gill and Shreyas Iyer out due to injuries, speculation was rife over whether Gaikwad or Tilak Varma would be selected. Surprisingly, both have secured their spots on the team.
Pant and Jadeja Make a Triumphant Return
Rishabh Pant has made his mark back in the blue jersey. Having been out due to an injury in England, he has proven his fitness in the Test series against South Africa, earning his spot back on the team.
Also Read: Team India Announced for South Africa Series... KL Rahul Takes Charge, Ruturaj Gaikwad Joins with Surprise Entry
Ravindra Jadeja's ODI selection holds special significance as he was absent from the team during India's tour of Australia last month. He expressed his desire to play in the ODI World Cup, suggesting he was not part of Coach Gambhir's immediate plans. However, Jadeja has now secured his return to the team. Dhruv Jurel also finds his name on the roster.
Jaspirit Bumrah Takes a Well-deserved Rest
Jasprit Bumrah will be resting during the ODI series to recharge before the T20 series. With an upcoming T20 World Cup next year, Bumrah's workload management has been a concern, prompting his strategic rest from the ODIs.
Also Read: 'Shubman's Health...', Rishabh Pant Reveals Shocking Details About Gill's Fitness During Toss
The pace attack will feature Prasidh Krishna and Arshdeep Singh, with Harshit Rana also part of the squad. Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar Reddy earns his spot in the squad.
Schedule of the India-South Africa ODI Series Unveiled
The first clash of the India-South Africa ODI series will take place on November 30 in Ranchi, followed by the second match on December 3 in Raipur, and concluding with the thrilling third match on December 6 in Visakhapatnam. A five-match T20 series will ensue from December 9, with Team India's declaration to come later.
India's Squad for the ODI Series Against South Africa:
Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (Captain/Wicketkeeper), Rishabh Pant (Wicketkeeper), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshit Rana, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Dhruv Jurel.
