The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed changes to India’s squad for the upcoming fifth and final Test against England, set to commence on March 7. Star pacer Jasprit Bumrah, rested for the fourth Test in Ranchi, will rejoin the squad in Dharamsala.
KL Rahul, initially uncertain due to fitness concerns, has been ruled out, with the BCCI Medical Team actively monitoring his condition in coordination with specialists in London.
Bumrah’s stellar performance in the series, claiming 17 wickets in three matches, makes his return significant. His exceptional average of 14.54 in seven Tests in India, featuring two five-wicket hauls, solidifies his role as a crucial asset.
Washington Sundar has been released from the squad to participate in Tamil Nadu’s Ranji Trophy Semi-final against Mumbai, starting March 2nd, 2024. The off-spinner will rejoin the Indian squad after completing the domestic fixture.
Rajat Patidar Retains Position for Dharamsala Test Despite Continuos Failure
Despite facing criticism for his recent performances, Rajat Patidar retains his place in the squad for the final Test. Having made his debut in the ongoing series, Patidar’s contributions have raised questions, scoring only 32 runs in six innings.
The BCCI announcement also included information about senior pacer Mohammed Shami, who underwent successful surgery on February 26, 2024, addressing a right heel problem. Shami is on the path to recovery and is expected to commence rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru.
With India holding an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series, the focus now turns to the final Test, where a victory will further solidify their position in the World Test Championship points table.
India’s updated squad for the 5th Test: Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel (WK), KS Bharat (WK), Devdutt Padikkal, R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep.
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