Indian management name their captain for T20I series against Sri Lanka in January: Reports
Indian All-rounder Hardik Pandya is expected to lead India in the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka, scheduled to begin from January 3 in Mumbai, according to a report. The second and third matches of the series will be held in Pune (January 5) and Rajkot (January 7). According to reports, Rohit Sharma’s thumb injury is expected to take some more time to heal. However, there is no clarity on whether he (Rohit) will step down from the T20I captaincy or the matter will be put on hold for the time being.
While it has been clear since India’s 20-20 World Cup semi-final exit in Australia that there will be several changes in the team once the new selection committee takes over, there has been no formal announcement yet.
Also, there was no discussion on India’s T20I captaincy in the Apex Council meeting, despite much speculation.
“The matter wasn’t even on the Apex Council agenda and it wasn’t discussed on the forum. Only the selection committee can take a call on captaincy,” an Indian Cricket Board official privy to the development told PTI on the condition of anonymity.
However, India’s T20 structure is expected to get totally revamped and all-rounder Hardik, who has shown his leadership acumen for the Gujarat franchise in the Indian T20 League, is considered an ideal replacement.
Rohit Sharma to get a farewell game against Sri Lanka?
While Rohit has had a thumb dislocation plus webbing injury, he will be rushing to get fit for the Sri Lanka series.
There are only six T20Is next year where ODIs will get preference due to the 50-over World Cup and, with Rohit not in the scheme for the 20-20 World Cup in 2024, it is only imperative that he might skip the T20Is unless he decides on quitting the format altogether.
An Indian Cricket Board old guard, who has been an office-bearer, had a suggestion for President Roger Binny and Secretary Jay Shah.
“The first T20I is at the Wankhede, which is Rohit’s home ground. Why don’t the selectors and the Indian Cricket Board secretary (Shah) give him a farewell T20 match and there is a graceful changeover of the leadership baton?” he suggested.
