In an eagerly awaited move, the Indian cricket fraternity is gearing up for the announcement of the 17-member squad for the upcoming Asia Cup, which is set to kick off on August 30th. As cricket enthusiasts eagerly await this unveiling, it's worth noting that the composition of this squad could provide a significant glimpse into India's plans for the upcoming ODI World Cup as well.
The Asia Cup, a major cricketing event in the region, is not just a battle for supremacy but also serves as a platform to finalize the team composition for the subsequent World Cup. With a few key positions up for grabs, India's selection committee, led by former cricketer Ajit Agarkar, is expected to tread cautiously. The concerns surrounding the fitness of middle-order batters KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer have prompted the selectors to opt for safer options for the Asia Cup. This decision, while a pragmatic one, will also allow them to test their backup players during the tournament, which includes five (or six, if they reach the final) matches in Sri Lanka.
The recent practice sessions have provided encouraging signs for India. Shreyas Iyer, who was battling a lower back issue, showcased his readiness by fielding for 50 overs and batting for 38 without any discomfort in a practice game. Meanwhile, KL Rahul, who missed the first practice match, is set to join Iyer in the second game, giving the selectors a better understanding of their fitness levels.
The selection process adheres to the rules laid down by the Asian Cricket Council, allowing each participating team to pick a 17-member squad for the Asia Cup. Following suit, Pakistan and Bangladesh have already finalized their squads. India's strategy is expected to mirror this approach, as revealed through sources, and might also encompass a provisional 15-member squad for the World Cup, to be submitted to the ICC by September 5. Teams, however, have the flexibility to make alterations until the final squad submission deadline of September 27.
A BCCI source, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated, "There is a possibility of picking the provisional 15-member squad for the World Cup which needs to be submitted by September 5 but one could make changes as the deadline for the final squad is September 27. For the Asia Cup, a couple of more players could be picked."
A notable departure from tradition is the inclusion of Rahul Dravid, former Indian cricketer and current coach of the national team, in the team selection meeting. In a move that marks a shift in BCCI's approach, Dravid will be officially part of the meeting, a privilege not afforded to previous head coaches. However, it's important to highlight that neither Dravid nor the captain, Rohit Sharma, will possess the right to vote during this process. Unlike Cricket Australia's method, where the chief coach is part of the National Selection Panel, the Indian approach is distinct.
While the anticipation builds for this significant development, it's yet to be confirmed whether Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid will participate physically in the meeting or join virtually via video conference. As the cricketing world watches with bated breath, this departure from convention adds an intriguing layer to the selection process and underscores the evolving dynamics within Indian cricket.
In conclusion, India's Asia Cup squad announcement is set to not only impact the regional cricketing landscape but also provide insights into their World Cup plans. With the inclusion of Rahul Dravid in the selection meeting, the BCCI is charting a new path, adding a dash of excitement to an already thrilling cricketing narrative.
