The BCCI on Friday announced the members of the Indian team for the T20I series against South Africa. While Suryakumar Yadav leads the team, speedster Mayank Yadav, who made his international debut against Bangladesh in the last series, and Riyan Parag remain absent due to injuries, with two notable mistakes. There was one. Additionally, Shivam Dube, who missed the series against Bangladesh due to injury, remains sidelined.
India’s Mayank Yadav delivers during the first T20 cricket match between Bangladesh and India in Gwalior, India (AP)
BCCI further released details about Parag’s absence, saying the all-rounder was undergoing “long-term treatment for a chronic right shoulder injury” at the Center of Excellence.
Three players were called up for the first time in the T20I squad against South Africa. Batsman Ramandeep Singh has qualified after his impressive performances for Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2024 and this month’s Emerging Teams Asia Cup. Among the bowlers, Vijaykumar Vishak and Yash Dayal, who received their maiden Test call-up in October, were also selected in the squad.
Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson, who started the series against Bangladesh, retained their places in the team, while Tilak Varma, who led the India A team to the semi-finals of the Emerging Teams Asia Cup, was also selected. Jitesh Sharma will also retain his position as the backup wicketkeeper.
Among all-rounders, Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel feature in the team. Varun Chakaravarthy was praised for his strong performance against Bangladesh, with Ravi Bishnoi praising him in the spin department.
This team features a five-man pace attack. Hardik is an all-rounder and the top pacers include Arshdeep Singh, Vishak, Avesh Khan and Dayal.
The four-match T20I tour in South Africa begins with the first match at Kingsmead on November 8.
Indian representative
Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh, Varun Chaka Ravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vishak, Avesh Khan, Yash Dayal.