The Indian cricket team is set to tour Sri Lanka in July-August 2024 for a three-match T20I series followed by a three-match ODI series.
The squad announcement for this tour is highly expected to be announced today, with several key decisions to be made by the new head coach Gautam Gambhir and the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar.
One of the major talking points surrounding the squad selection is the potential absence of three big names – Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Jasprit Bumrah – from the ODI series.
Rohit Sharma to miss IND vs SL ODI?
According to reports, Rohit Sharma is likely to be rested for the ODI series against Sri Lanka.
The veteran opener has been a vital cog in India’s white-ball setup, but with the team entering a transition phase, the selectors and new coach Gambhir might want to provide rest and recovery time to the senior players.
However, there are also reports that Gambhir wants Rohit to be part of the ODI series to provide experience and guidance to the younger players.
Virat Kohli will not play in IND vs SL ODI series 2024?
Similar to Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli is also expected to be rested for the ODI series in Sri Lanka. Kohli, who recently retired from T20Is, will be a key player for India in the 2024 ODI World Cup.
Currently, Virat Kohli is in London spending vacation with his family and most probably he will miss out on the Sri Lanka series.
The selectors might want to manage his workload and give him a break before the team’s next assignment against Bangladesh in September.
Jasprit Bumrah set to miss IND vs SL ODI series?
India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is also likely to be rested for the ODI series in Sri Lanka.
Bumrah has been dealing with fitness issues in the past and the selectors might want to give him adequate rest and recovery time before the team’s next international assignment.
This will also provide an opportunity for other pacers like Mohammed Siraj to stake their claim in the ODI team.