India Squad Announced for T20I Series Against Afghanistan: Kohli and Sharma Return After Over a Year

In a much-anticipated announcement the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) revealed the squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan set to commence on January 11 in Mohali. The announcement brought significant excitement as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are set to make their return to the T20I squad after a hiatus of more than a year.

Both Kohli and Sharma last featured in a T20I during India’s semi-final exit from the T20 World Cup in 2022. Their inclusion in the squad for the Afghanistan series marks a crucial comeback with fans eager to witness their dynamic partnership once again.

What do you all make of this power-packed T20I squad set to face Afghanistan? 😎#TeamIndia | #INDvAFG | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/pY2cUPdpHy

— BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2024

Squad Highlights:

1. Kohli and Sharma’s Comeback:

The headline news revolves around the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to the T20I fold. Their absence from the shortest format for over a year had sparked numerous discussions and their inclusion is expected to add significant depth to the Indian batting lineup.

2. Notable Omissions:

While the return of the veteran duo made headlines the announcement also brought some notable exclusions. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj have been rested for the series paving the way for other pacers to showcase their skills. Shreyas Iyer and Ishan Kishan were also left out for the Afghanistan T20Is.

3. New Inclusions:

Shivam Dube’s inclusion in the T20I squad emerged as a noteworthy development. He will fill in the spot left vacant by Hardik Pandya who is currently recovering from an ankle injury sustained during the ODI World Cup in 2023.

4. Squad Composition:

The squad comprises a mix of experienced players and promising youngsters. Rohit Sharma will lead the team supported by the likes of Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and the returning Virat Kohli. The bowling department features a blend of spinners and pacers including Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and the promising Ravi Bishnoi.

Expert Opinions:

1. Sourav Ganguly’s Expectations:

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly expressed his desire to see Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli included in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup 2024. This sentiment is expected to intensify discussions around the team’s leadership for the upcoming marquee event.

2. Aakash Chopra’s Prediction:

Cricket analyst Aakash Chopra speculated that Rohit Sharma is likely to take over the T20I captaincy and lead the Indian team in the T20 World Cup 2024. This prediction adds an intriguing angle to India’s leadership dynamics in the T20 format.

Closing Thoughts:

The announcement of the India squad for the Afghanistan T20I series sets the stage for an exciting contest not only against Afghanistan but also in the larger context of India’s preparations for the T20 World Cup 2024. With seasoned campaigners returning and fresh faces getting an opportunity the series promises to be a crucial step in shaping India’s T20I future. Cricket enthusiasts eagerly await the action to unfold starting with the first match on January 11 in Mohali.