Five Indian players who should be picked for West Indies tour
India’s World Cup dreams came crashing down after the heart-breaking loss against New Zealand in the semi-final at Old Trafford. However, now is the time to look forward and try out a few young guns who missed out on the World Cup selection. The low-profile tour to the West Indies provides a perfect opportunity for the selectors to groom a few youngsters for upcoming tours.
With the Indian selectors set to announce their squads for the Caribbean tour (3 ODIs, 3 T20Is and 2 Tests) on 21st July, Sunday, here are five upcoming players who should be a part of this tour.
Shreyas Iyer
India’s greatest worry in the lead-up to the World Cup and in the tournament was their fledgeling middle-order. One youngster who can solve that problem is Shreyas Iyer. The 24-year old Mumbai batsman performed well in the given chances and averages 42 in six ODIs that he played for India. He was impressive in the IPL and has been in very good form recently. The Delhi Capitals captain is more than capable of sealing that crucial number four spot in ODIs.
Shubman Gill
Touted to be India’s next batting star, this West Indies tour will be an ideal opportunity to test Shubman Gill. The 19-year old has played two ODIs but this tour can be his first serious assignment. Gill has already shown his capability of adapting to the Caribbean conditions. The Punjabi batsman is the current leading run-getter in India A – West Indies A limited-overs series.
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Krunal Pandya
India relied heavily on Kedar Jadhav because he provided a spin option alongside his batting. Looking beyond him, the selectors can choose Krunal Pandya. The left-arm spinner has showcased his skills in the IPL while playing for Mumbai Indians. He will be an effective batsman in the lower middle-order. Pandya has already represented India in T20Is, he has a good case to break in India’s ODI side. The spinner recently took 5/25 against West Indies A in the third 50-over match.
Rahul Chahar
India’s primary wrist-spinners Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav failed to perform as expected in the World Cup. This trip can turn out to be a perfect opportunity for the 19-year old leggie Rahul Chahar. The wrist-spinner was excellent in India A’s win over Sri Lanka A. In the ongoing series against West Indies A, Chahar has taken four wickets in two games. He will be a wonderful prospect to try out in the T20I matches.
Navdeep Saini
Although Royal Challengers Bangalore failed to reach the playoffs this year, they unearthed a pace bowling sensation in the form of Navdeep Saini. The Delhi bowler had impressive numbers in domestic cricket but the IPL helped showcase his talent in front of millions. The right-arm pacer took 5/46 in India A’s first 50-over match against West Indies A in the ongoing tour. It will be the perfect time to give Saini a chance in the Indian jersey.
