After a disappointing end to the World Test Championship (WTC) 2021-23, where Team India lost the final against Australia, they are now gearing up for the WTC 2023-25 cycle with a series against West Indies. In this article, we will provide a predicted squad for the upcoming Test series and discuss the key selection decisions faced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Based on recent performances and the team's requirements, the following players are likely to be part of the Test squad for India:
The selection of batters poses a significant challenge for the BCCI. The most pressing question is whether Cheteshwar Pujara will be persisted with, despite his recent ordinary returns. Pujara's poor performance in the WTC final raises doubts about his inclusion, especially considering the upcoming series against a comparatively weaker West Indies side.
The BCCI may opt to introduce a young talent like Yashasvi Jaiswal, who could potentially bat at number 3. Additionally, Ajinkya Rahane's selection is likely due to his impressive performance in the WTC final, and Suryakumar Yadav might also find a place in the squad.
With KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant absent, Ishan Kishan and KS Bharat are expected to continue their roles as the wicket-keepers. The lack of alternatives in the domestic circuit leaves the BCCI with limited options, making Kishan and Bharat the best choices for Test cricket.
The quartet of Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Shardul Thakur, who were part of the WTC Final squad, are likely to retain their places as all-rounders. These players will showcase their skills on the challenging West Indies pitches. Notably, neither Axar nor Shardul was part of the Test squad during the previous West Indies tour.
The selection dilemma in the bowling department revolves around the relevance of Umesh Yadav in Test matches, considering his age and recent form. To plan for the future, it may be the right time for Team India to introduce Mukesh Kumar as Yadav's replacement. Apart from Kumar, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj are expected to lead the pace attack in the absence of the injured Jasprit Bumrah. Jaydev Unadkat is likely to feature as the third pacer when the situation demands.
India will face West Indies in a 2-match Test series scheduled as follows:
The predicted Test squad for the India vs West Indies 2023 series comprises a balanced mix of experienced players and emerging talents. While 12 players select themselves based on the current situation, decisions regarding the inclusion of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Umesh Yadav, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav, and Yashasvi Jaiswal remain debatable.
The series against West Indies will provide an opportunity for Team India to kickstart the new WTC cycle and set the tone for future success in Test cricket.
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