The leadership dilemma looms over the India Cricket Team for the upcoming IND vs AFG T20 series as the BCCI Selection Committee grapples with uncertainties. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar, currently in Cape Town, is in discussions with Rohit Sharma regarding his potential return as the captain, though Rohit’s focus on the IND vs ENG Test series may lead to him skipping the T20 series.
In the absence of key players like Hardik Pandya, Suryakumar Yadav, and the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Shubman Gill, and Ravindra Jadeja emerge as potential captaincy options. The selectors, facing a challenging decision, will convene today to finalize the India squad for the Afghanistan series.
Adding complexity to the situation is the question of Rohit Sharma’s return to T20Is, especially considering his absence since the T20 World Cup 2022 semifinal. While both Rohit and Virat Kohli express a desire to be part of T20 World Cup 2024, the selection hinges on their IPL 2024 performance. The risk of including an injury-prone Rohit in the IND vs AFG T20 series, perceived as a formality, is weighed against the need to nurture young talents as backups.
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Ultimately, the selectors are open to accommodating Rohit’s preference, pending the approval of head coach Rahul Dravid, who holds a significant role in shaping the squad for the IND vs AFG series.