India’s selection of a 17-member contingent for the Asia Cup has been officially unveiled in India vs Ireland. Surprisingly, the announcement came to light only following the conclusion of the second T20 encounter against Ireland.
This delayed revelation stirred a concoction of anticipation and anxiety among the budding talents, who were poised to showcase their prowess. With the roster now unveiled, those fortunate enough to secure a spot in the squad can finally exhale a collective sigh of relief.
It is worth noting that, despite the Asia Cup primarily adhering to the ODI format, the influence of T20 cricket is not to be underestimated.
India has already pocketed the first two fixtures of the three-game T20 series against Ireland, thereby securing the series. However, their sights are now set on achieving a clean sweep by triumphing in the upcoming match of India vs Ireland.
Although the T20 series against Ireland might seem inconsequential in light of the forthcoming Asia Cup and World Cup, it holds a unique significance, especially for Jasprit Bumrah and the emerging cricketers.
Bumrah, in particular, had the rare opportunity to bowl his full quota of four overs in competitive international cricket.
In terms of fitness, Bumrah has been exemplary, notching up impressive performances in both encounters. He managed to scalp four wickets in as many overs, displaying economic yet incisive bowling.
What adds luster to this achievement is that he claimed two wickets in the very first over after a year-long hiatus. Bumrah’s readiness for the Asia Cup and, more significantly, the World Cup, is undoubtedly a source of immense delight.
Looking ahead to these prestigious tournaments, Bumrah’s presence is invaluable, even if it entails the risk of participating in a third match within a span of five days.
Although he will be restricted to a mere four overs, it is widely believed that his participation will be instrumental in bolstering his confidence.
Should the illustrious Krishna make it into the Asia Cup squad, one can expect an elevated level of enthusiasm in his bowling performances.
Given India’s commanding position in the series, it appears to be an opportune moment to afford playing time to some of the reserve players such as Awesh Khan, Jitesh Sharma, and Shahbaz Ahmed for India vs Ireland.
Awesh Khan, who was part of the touring party to the West Indies, endured a spell on the sidelines during the five T20 matches and two games against Ireland India vs Ireland. His long-awaited opportunity is set to materialize tomorrow, after a seven-game stint on the bench.
In the event of Sanju Samson being granted a well-deserved rest, the wicket-keeper batsman Jitesh Sharma could find himself in contention for a spot in the playing XI.
Following the trailblazing exploits of Suryakumar Yadav, India has unearthed another potential finisher in Rinku Singh from India vs Ireland. His dazzling 37-run blitz off 21 deliveries in the second T20 is a testament to his capabilities.
The likes of Jaiswal, Gaikwad, Rinku, and Tilak Verma are continually fortifying their claims for a more permanent berth in India’s T20 squad. The action is scheduled to commence at 7.30 pm.
India vs Ireland both teams:
Ireland
Paul Stirling (c), Lorcan Tucker (wkt), Andrew Balburnie, Harry Tector, Curtis Kempfer, George Dockrell, Mark Adair, Barry McCarthy, Craig Young, Joshua Little, Benjamin White, Fionn Hand, Theo van Warkom, Gareth Delaney, Ross Adair.
India
Jasprit Bumrah (c), Sanju Samson (wkt), Yashshwi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Verma, Rinku Singh, Shivam Dubey, Washington Sundar, Irishan Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Awesh Khan, Jitesh Sharma, Mukesh Kumar, Shahbaz Ahmed.