The national selectors were in for a surprise as they announced the name of left arm spinner, Kuldeep Yadav, in the Indian squad for first three matches of the upcoming ODI series against West Indies. Leg spinner Amit Mishra was recalled and Murli Vijay also made a comeback in place of the injured Rohit Sharma.
Regular off spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was rested by Sandeep Patil-led panel. Several spinners have come under scrutiny and have been reported for illegal action. It’s like an onslaught is going on against the spinners and Ashwin could very well be the next victim. Just few days back West Indian mystery spinner was reported for suspect bowling during CLT20. This could very well be the case of BCCI trying to protect Ashwin, a good decision indeed.
Yadav was rewarded for his brilliant performances in the CLT20 for KKR. Yadav has the ability to deceive batsman with his variations and has impressed everyone with his skills. He will also become the first cricketer in the last 10 years to make it to the national team without playing a single first class or list A match.
Sanju Samson and Karn Sharma were overlooked by the selection committee. Kulkarni who played an ODI in England also misses out. Stuart Binny who hasn’t played since Bangladesh tour is also left out.With the exception of Kulkarni ,the pace battery including Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami and Mohit Sharma remains the same as England.
Robin Uthappa loses out to Vijay. Batting remains same with Rahane, Raina, Dhawan , Kohli, Dhoni picking themselves. Rayadu held on to his spot thanks to his decent show in England. Ravindra Jadeja the only International level all rounder continue to be the part of the side.
Squad for first three ODI’s: MS Dhoni (c & wk), Shikhar Dhawan, Ajinkya Rahane, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Ravindra Jadeja, Amit Mishra, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohammed Shami, Mohit Sharma, Umesh Yadav, Murali Vijay, Kuldeep Yadav.
