The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to announce India’s Test squad for the remainder of the Test series against England on February 10. Virat Kohli who pulled out of the first two Tests due to personal reasons is unavailable for selection for the entire series.
However, the sources confirmed to Sports Tak that Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul who missed the second Test due to injuries are set to return for the Rajkot Test. Jadeja sustained a hamstring injury whereas Rahul complained of pain in his right quadriceps after the Hyderabad Test. The duo headed to the National Cricket Academy (NCA), Bengaluru where they rehabilitated.
Bumrah to stay but one change in pace department
Meanwhile, Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be a part of India's Test squad contrary to reports that suggested India's fast-bowling spearhead will be rested to manage his workload. Bumrah has been in sensational form in the series. He has taken 15 wickets in the first two Tests including a six-wicket haul in Visakhapatnam.
There is another change in the bowling department. Avesh Khan will be released and Akash Deep who took three wickets against England Lions in the three-match series will be added to the squad. On the other hand, Avesh is yet to make his Test debut despite travelling with the team on a few tours.
England batter plays ILT20
After India's 106-run loss, Ben Stokes-led England headed back to Dubai where they had a preparatory camp before the tour. They will be back in India ahead of the third Test scheduled to start on February 15 at Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium. Meanwhile, the team management had permitted Dan Lawrence to rejoin ILT20 side Desert Vipers for two league matches. Lawrence made his appearance for Desert Vipers against Dubai Capitals on February 9. He will play one more match on February 11 before rejoining the squad.
India vs England head-to-head in Rajkot
The last time India took on England in Rajkot was in 2016. Four England batters scored centuries as the Test ended in a draw. Moeen Ali was adjudged 'Player of the match' for his all-round performance.
Overall, India have played two Tests in Rajkot. In 2018 against West Indies, India won by an innings and 272 runs.
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