Now that the BCCI is done with their AGM, the attention shifts back to the field of play. The selectors have a tough task taking a call on some of the senior players today when they meet to pick the squad for the T20 and the first three one-day internationals against Australia.
Although there’s little indication about Sandeep Patil & Co fielding similar T20 and ODI teams for these games, what looks almost certain is that Yuvraj Singh who has been languishing in the cold for some time, may return to the fold, thanks to his excellent form.
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While there would be few surprises in the Mahendra Singh Dhoni-led squad that has performed admirably by winning the Champions Trophy and tri-series in the West Indies, the return of the stylish 31-year-old left-hander is all but guaranteed.
Yuvraj last played for India on January 27 against England at Dharamsala and was dropped subsequently due to a poor run of form.
Having undergone rigorous physical training in France, a fitter Yuvraj made his comeback into competitive cricket with a bang scoring 123, 40 and 61 in three List A matches against the West Indies A followed by a quickfire 52 against the same opponent in a T20 game.
Selectors impressed
He carried on his good form in the Challenger Series where he scored 84 against India Red and a 29 in the final. According to sources, the selection committee is impressed in the manner Yuvraj has scored his runs.
There won’t be much change in the batting line-up with Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina and Dhoni being automatic selections. Yuvraj will be the sixth specialist batsman in the playing XI.