Rohit Sharma is set to lead India on the upcoming tour of England, according to a report by The Times of India.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly shortlisted a pool of 35 players for the high-stakes red-ball series, which will see the squad split into two groups-India and India A.
The squads are expected to be officially announced by the second week of May, with preparations already underway for what is being dubbed one of the most challenging overseas assignments since the Australia tour.
Despite a lacklustre performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Rohit continues to enjoy the backing of the Indian selectors and team management. “Rohit is most likely to travel as the board feels that one needs a strong captain through the series, which is likely to be as tough as the Australia tour,” a BCCI source told TOI.
The selection committee appears to have taken a cautious approach when it comes to middle-order options. While Sarfaraz Khan’s place remains doubtful due to questions around his consistency at the highest level, the in-form duo of Karun Nair and Rajat Patidar are likely to be rewarded with Test recalls. Promising youngster Sai Sudharsan is also in contention for a debut, possibly as a third opener.
Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer’s Test future hangs in the balance. Despite being in and around the squad in recent years, Iyer’s inconsistent red-ball form could see him miss out on selection.
With the retirement of veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is likely to be drafted in as the lead spinner for the England tour. Axar Patel may be overlooked in favour of a pace-heavy attack, especially with fitness concerns surrounding key pacers Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah. Several reserve fast bowlers are also expected to be named as part of the touring party.
The dual-squad strategy reflects the BCCI’s emphasis on building bench strength while ensuring both the main team and its reserves are prepared for the tough English conditions.