Ishan Kishan is unlikely to secure a spot in India’s squad for the T20I series against Bangladesh after his recent participation in the Duleep Trophy 2024. Emerging reports suggest that Jitesh Sharma has risen through the ranks to become India’s second-choice wicketkeeper, overshadowing Ishan. Jitesh is anticipated to be part of India’s squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series, which is set to commence on October 6.
The 26-year-old Ishan Kishan’s last appearance for India was back in November of the previous year. Since then, he was omitted from the BCCI’s central contract list after missing several domestic tournaments. Although he made a comeback in the recent Duleep Trophy 2024, he seems to have fallen behind both Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma in the selection hierarchy.
According to reports from PTI, Jitesh Sharma is poised to receive a nod ahead of Ishan for the T20Is against Bangladesh as the BCCI plans to rest most players involved in the ongoing Test series, including Rishabh Pant. The reports further indicate that Sanju Samson, likely to be India’s first-choice wicketkeeper for the series, will be backed up by Jitesh Sharma.
Ishan Kishan’s return to the Duleep Trophy saw him score a remarkable century for India C. However, his performance was inconsistent, with three consecutive low scores following his century. On the other hand, Jitesh Sharma has yet to make a significant impact in T20Is despite having played nine matches. Moreover, he hasn’t participated in any competitive cricket since the IPL 2024.
Meanwhile, young talent Yashasvi Jaiswal is expected to be available for only the first T20I as the BCCI plans to rest the promising player ahead of the three Tests against New Zealand. Concurrently, Ruturaj Gaikwad might miss the opening game of the series as he has been selected to lead the Rest of India squad in the Irani Cup fixture scheduled from October 1 to 5 in Lucknow.
As the series against Bangladesh approaches, Abhishek Sharma, who made his T20I debut against Zimbabwe following an outstanding IPL 2024 campaign, is expected to make a return to the Indian squad. Sharma was dropped for the Sri Lanka series, but his contributions and performance have kept him in the selectors’ consideration for the T20Is against Bangladesh.
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India’s management and selection committee seem to be implementing several changes in the squad to manage player workloads and build a balanced team for the series. The probable lineup for India’s T20I squad includes a mixture of experienced players and young talents. Suryakumar Yadav, known for his aggressive batting style, is likely to add depth to the squad. Abhishek Sharma’s all-round capabilities make him a valuable addition, while Ruturaj Gaikwad’s leadership skills and batting prowess could be crucial for India’s success.
Rinku Singh, who has been garnering attention for his consistent performances in domestic cricket, also finds a place in the probable squad. Hardik Pandya, known for his explosive batting and handy medium-pace bowling, brings a wealth of experience and match-winning potential. Following him is Shivam Dube, who has shown flashes of brilliance in his nascent career.
Jitesh Sharma, having emerged as the second-choice wicketkeeper, will aim to leave an indelible mark if given the opportunity. Riyan Parag, another young talent with immense potential, is expected to contribute significantly in both batting and fielding departments. Washington Sundar, renowned for his economical bowling and handy batting, adds to the balance of the squad.
The fast-bowling department will be spearheaded by Avesh Khan and Arshdeep Singh. Tushar Deshpande and Harshit Rana, known for their pace and ability to swing the ball, provide further options. The spin department will see Ravi Bishnoi, a leg-spinner who has impressed with his variations and control, adding another dimension to the bowling attack.
In summary, the probable squad for India’s T20I series against Bangladesh looks as follows: Suryakumar Yadav, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal (only for the first game), Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Riyan Parag, Washington Sundar, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Tushar Deshpande, Harshit Rana, and Ravi Bishnoi.
As speculations and preparations continue, the Indian cricket community eagerly anticipates an exciting and competitive series against Bangladesh.
