Injured Indian batters KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer are not expected to be selected for the Asia Cup 2023 squad, according to the reports within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This comes after the news that the announcement of the final squad for the event is set to take place this week.
Despite many recent fitness updates shared by the players on social media, the BCCI believes that both players have not adequately recovered in time to compete in the championship slated for August 30 to September 17, according to reports.
However, the duo are potential contenders for the ODI World Cup later this year, contingent on their complete recovery. The three-match ODI series against Australia in September is the aim of their return to international cricket.
The two players' non-inclusion suggests that the bulk of the squad from the recently concluded ODI series against West Indies will participate in the Asia Cup, co-hosted by Pakistan and Sri Lanka. However, alterations in the bowling line-up are expected with Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Jasprit Bumrah expected to make their comebacks.
Prasidh Krishna, who is also returning from an injury break, is under review but he may not secure a spot due to a 15-player roster. Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan appears to be consolidating his position for both the Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup, with Rahul a potential contender for the latter as well, subject to his recovery.
Ishan's selection will prompt the team management to reconsider the opening batting combination when Rohit Sharma rejoins the playing XI. It is suggested that Ishan and Rohit will open, and Shubman Gill, who opened in the West Indies ODI series, might shift to the middle order. The final team structure and batting order will be established at the Asia Cup preparatory camp in Bengaluru, running from August 24 to 29. India's first Asia Cup match against Pakistan is scheduled for September 2.
Meanwhile, the World Cup 2023 schedule is set to undergo major changes. As many as six matches are set to be rescheduled for the mega event later this year. Sports Tak has learned that the high voltage encounter between India and Pakistan is set to be preponed. Now, the clash between arch-rivals will be played on October 14 at the same venue.
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