In the upcoming five-match T20I series against Australia, Suryakumar Yadav will lead the Indian cricket team. This comes just four days after Australia secured their sixth World Cup title by defeating India by six wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Notably, Ruturaj Gaikwad has been entrusted with the role of Suryakumar Yadav’s deputy for the first three games of the series. Gaikwad’s elevation to the position of deputy captain underscores the team’s confidence in his abilities and highlights the young opener’s growing prominence in the Indian cricket setup. His inclusion in a leadership role reflects the team management’s recognition of Gaikwad’s consistent performances and potential to contribute significantly to the team’s success.
Ruturaj Gaikwad named vice-captain of Indian team
Additionally, Shreyas Iyer is set to join the squad as the vice-captain for the last two T20Is in Raipur and Bengaluru, further strengthening the team’s leadership core. Suryakumar Yadav’s appointment as captain, coupled with Gaikwad’s deputy role, signifies a blend of experience and emerging talent, showcasing India’s commitment to nurturing and utilizing the full spectrum of its cricketing resources.
Suryakumar Yadav assumes the captaincy responsibilities in the absence of Hardik Pandya, who sustained an ankle injury during the Cricket World Cup. Pandya’s unfortunate injury paves the way for Suryakumar Yadav to lead the team, with Ruturaj Gaikwad playing a crucial role as his deputy, adding a new dimension to the team’s leadership structure. The T20I series promises to be a platform for Gaikwad to further showcase his leadership potential and contribute significantly to India’s success on the international stage.
Shivam Dube returns to Indian team
However, Gaikwas is not the only lion who will be featured in the upcoming series. Another player from your favourite IPL franchise has managed to get a call-up for the team, in the form of Shivam Dube.
The all-rounder was earlier a part of the Asian Games team that managed to secure a gold medal and now he has been named in the provisional 15 for the series.
His explosive batting was one of the most talked factors in the 2023 season of IPL. Dube emerged as one of the hardest hitters of the cricket ball in the lower middle order for Chennai Super Kings, which is why he received a call for the Asian Games. In his 16 IPL innings, he managed to score 418 runs at a strike of 156, which is nothing short of phenomenal. Dube smashed a total of 38 sixes in the tournament as well.
Now, he will be looking to get a chance in the starting eleven and cement his position as a finisher, which the Indian cricket team needs at the moment.
This series against Australia will technically mark the Indian team’s preparation for the 2024 T20I World Cup, which will be held in USA. Hence, they will take no half measures against Australia and produce, what is, their best squad in this 3 match series.
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