The Indian Cricket Team squad for the Asia Cup 2023 is set to be announced on August 21 in New Delhi at 1:30 pm. Captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Rahul Dravid, and newly appointed chief selector Ajit Agarkar will attend the selection meeting at the Taj Palace. This will mark Agarkar's inaugural press conference since assuming his position in July.
Contrary to the norm, Dravid has also been invited to the selection meeting. While the head coach's presence at such gatherings isn't typical, the significance of upcoming tournaments like the Asia Cup and the World Cup has necessitated his inclusion. Speculation suggests that a 17-player roster will be named for the Asia Cup, and it's anticipated that many, if not all, of these players, will also represent India in the subsequent ODI World Cup.
The selection panel's major point of deliberation is anticipated to centre around KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer. Both players are in the concluding stages of their recovery from injuries. Although they've participated in practice matches, they await the National Cricket Academy's clearance.
The team's selection was initially slated for August 18 but faced postponements, first to the 20th and now, to the 21st. These delays were strategic, allowing the selectors to assess the fitness levels of key players, including Jasprit Bumrah, who recently made his comeback to international cricket after nearly a year's hiatus. Bumrah's performance during the Ireland T20 series, especially his two-wicket haul in the first match, underscores his importance to the side.
With the majority of the squad spots seemingly confirmed, the final decisions revolve around the inclusion of the third spinner. It remains to be seen if Yuzvendra Chahal or Axar Patel will be handed that pivotal role.
India's probable squad for Asia Cup 2023
Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel/Yuzvendra Chahal, Shardul Thakur.
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