The BCCI recently announced an 18-member squad for Team India’s upcoming five-match Test series against Australia, generating excitement about the clash and discussions over the squad lineup. However, some players who made the squad might not get the chance to play. Here’s a look at five selected players who may find it hard to break into the starting XI.
1. Abhimanyu Easwaran: The Reserve Opener
Veteran domestic batsman Abhimanyu Easwaran has earned a spot in the Indian squad as a backup opener. While his selection highlights his talent, the chances of him playing in this series seem slim. Easwaran has been brought in as an alternative should primary openers Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal face any injuries or fitness concerns. Unless either of them is unavailable, Easwaran will likely stay on the bench throughout the series.
2. Washington Sundar: Spin All-Rounder but Facing Tough Competition
All-rounder Washington Sundar is another talented player in the squad, remembered for his standout performance in the Pune Test against New Zealand. However, the Australian pitches are traditionally better suited for pace rather than spin, reducing the need for a spin all-rounder. Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin are also present in the squad, so Sundar’s chance of making it to the playing XI is uncertain, given the likely priority given to frontline pacers.
3. Dhruv Jurel: Backup Wicketkeeper
Young wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel has been selected as a reserve keeper for the tour. With Rishabh Pant fully fit and expected to keep wickets for all five Tests, Jurel’s opportunity to play depends heavily on Pant’s availability. Unless Pant faces an injury or needs a break, Jurel will likely be limited to a supporting role, waiting in the wings for an unexpected opportunity to play.
4. Sarfaraz Khan: Middle-Order Batsman Awaiting an Opening
Sarfaraz Khan, a powerful middle-order batsman with a stellar record in domestic cricket, has finally earned a spot in the squad for this crucial tour. However, with KL Rahul also in the lineup and more experienced options for the middle order, Sarfaraz’s chances of entering the playing XI are slim. Rahul, with his versatility and experience, is likely to be preferred. For Sarfaraz, the pathway to the XI may only open if Rahul has a prolonged dip in form, which is unlikely to happen over the course of a five-Test series.
5. Harshit Rana: Young Paceman with Limited Chances
Harshit Rana’s selection in the squad has come as an exciting opportunity for the young pacer. But with a pace lineup featuring Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Akashdeep, and Prasidh Krishna, Harshit’s chances to make the playing XI are minimal. Bumrah and Siraj, both seasoned Test players, are expected to lead the bowling attack, with Akashdeep and Krishna in line for rotation if needed. In such a competitive pace lineup, Harshit will likely need to wait for future opportunities to make his mark in the Test arena.
Competition and Strategy Behind Selections
While these five players might not see playing time in this series, their selection speaks volumes about India’s long-term planning and focus on strengthening the squad depth. The BCCI has emphasized the importance of squad versatility, selecting players who can step up in case of injuries or changes in playing conditions.
The experience gained on a high-pressure tour like Australia will benefit these emerging talents, preparing them for the future. With established players already leading key roles, these backup players are also seen as vital insurance for India as they take on Australia in what promises to be a hard-fought Test series.
