The Indian cricket team is gearing up for a new series after facing a disappointing loss to Australia in the fifth Test match. The men’s team will take on England in a five-match T20 series starting January 22. Meanwhile, the women’s team is set to face Ireland in a three-match series beginning January 10. The squad for the women’s team has been announced, and it does not include Team India captain Harmanpreet Kaur.
Rest for the Captain
Harmanpreet Kaur has been given rest and excluded from the squad for the series against Ireland. Another senior player, Renuka Singh, has also been given rest due to workload management. Renuka had an impressive performance in the last series, but the BCCI has decided to give her a break. Harmanpreet Kaur had suffered an injury during the first match against West Indies but recovered in time for the third match.
New Captain Takes Charge
In Harmanpreet Kaur’s absence, Smriti Mandhana has been appointed as the captain of Team India for the series. As the vice-captain, Mandhana is the natural choice to take on the responsibilities. Deepti Sharma will serve as the vice-captain for the series. Two new players, Raghavi Bisht and Sayali Satghare, have been included in the squad and may make their debut during the series.
Team India’s Squad for ODI Series against Ireland
Smriti Mandhana (captain), Deepti Sharma (vice-captain), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Uma Chhetri (wicketkeeper), Richa Ghosh (wicketkeeper), Tejal Hassabnis, Raghavi Bist, Minnu Mani, Priya Mishra, Tanuja Kanwar, Titas Sadhu, Saima Thakor, Sayali Satghare