New Delhi: The Indian team selectors are expected to announce the squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy on October 28. Selectors are expected to pick the team for the tough five-match series after the culmination of the India-New Zealand second Test match in Pune, which starts on October 24. According to multiple media reports, the India team will likely leave for Perth on November 10, 12 days ahead of the series opener on November 22.
The Indian team will likely be travelling with a big contingent for the crucial series, with Nitish Kumar Reddy and seasoned batter Cheteshwar Pujara as the surprise picks. After the second Test in Pune against the Kiwis, India will play the third and final Test match against them from November 1 to November 5 in Mumbai, which leaves them with just a fortnight in hand before the tough Australia tour begins.
Pujara a vital hand for India in BGT
Veteran Pujara can be a vital hand for the Indian team on the tour of Australia if at all he’s considered. He was classic in the 2018-19 tour to Australia where he amassed more than 500 runs. Not only this, he has been in a terrific touch recently in the Ranji Trophy with his 18th double century in first-class cricket coming in a match few days back.
Apart from the seasoned campaigner, Mohammed Shami is another name that could be picked for the all-important tour. Shami, a day earlier, declared himself to be pain-free and can be seen practicing hard in the nets, eager for India comeback. Apart from Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, Avesh Khan and Yash Dayal can also be expected in the mix, as India plans to take lot many net bowlers along. Shardul Thakur is another named which has popped up but keeping in mind his recent form since coming back from an injury, it would be hard for selectors to take a call on him.
