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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) unveiled the squads for the upcoming white-ball tour of Sri Lanka, commencing on July 27, surprising fans and experts with some key selections and omissions.
Rohit Sharma retains ODI captaincy
In a move contrary to speculation, Rohit Sharma will continue to lead the Indian ODI side. Suryakumar Yadav, known for his explosive batting, has been named the new T20I captain, with Shubman Gill, impressive during the Zimbabwe series, appointed as vice-captain for both formats. This decision sees Hardik Pandya stepping away from the T20I captaincy role for the time being.
Virat Kohli, after a period of rest, makes a welcome return to the ODI squad, bolstering the batting lineup.
Also READ: ‘Shame on you BCCI’: Fans slam selectors for dropping Ruturaj Gaikwad from India squad | SL vs IND 2024
Sanju Samson’s exclusion sparks controversy
However, the BCCI’s selection decisions have not been without criticism. The omission of Sanju Samson from the ODI squad has caused significant debate. Samson was in stellar form during India’s last ODI against South Africa, scoring a well-deserved century in the series decider. This snub has left many fans and experts questioning the selection criteria.
Shivam Dube replaces Sanju Samson
Shivam Dube, a member of India’s victorious T20 World Cup squad, has been named in the ODI squad, replacing Samson. This decision has been met with disapproval by some experts, who believe Samson’s recent form merited a place over Dube.
The squad also sees the return of Shreyas Iyer, along with the exciting inclusions of youngsters Riyan Parag and Harshit Rana.
Doda Ganesh slams Team India selectors
Taking to X, former India pacer Dodda Ganesh slammed the selectors for picking Dube over Samson.
“Shivam Dube in place of Sanju Samson in the ODIs is ridiculous,” he tweeted soon after the BCCI made the team announcement. “Poor Sanju scored a century in his last series against SA. Why him always? My heart goes out to this young man.”
Shivam Dube in place of Sanju Samson in the ODIs is ridiculous. Poor Sanju scored a century in his last series against SA. Why him always? My heart goes out to this young man #SLvIND
— Dodda Ganesh | ದೊಡ್ಡ ಗಣೇಶ್ (@doddaganesha) July 18, 2024
With the all-important ICC Champions Trophy approaching in 2025, these discussions are likely to continue as India prepares to take on Sri Lanka in the upcoming white-ball series.
