The wait is almost over. Today, May 24, the Indian cricket team for the England tour is expected to be announced. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will not only reveal the squad but also confirm the new captain. Amidst the speculation, a familiar face might make a comeback to the Test team after nearly two years – Cheteshwar Pujara.
Pujara, a long-time teammate of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, has been out of the team for almost two years, despite his Test match experience. Although Virat and Rohit have retired, Pujara’s potential return has been a topic of discussion.
Recently, social media was abuzz with the topic of Pujara’s comeback. A report by cricbuzz reveals that the BCCI is unlikely to look back, implying that the board might not consider older players. This reduces the likelihood of Pujara’s return. However, the report suggests that Devdutt Padikkal or Sarfaraz Khan might be included in the Test squad.
Pujara last played a Test match in June 2022 against Australia. In his 103 Test matches, he scored 7,195 runs, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. Since being dropped from the team, Pujara has been active in first-class cricket but hasn’t had impressive numbers. Last year, he didn’t score many runs playing for Sussex in county cricket.
The BCCI is expected to announce the team today. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar might reveal the squad at a press conference in Doha at 1:30 pm. The anticipation is building up, and cricket fans are eager to know the team composition and the new captain.
Some key points to consider:
- Cheteshwar Pujara might make a comeback to the Test team after nearly two years.
- The BCCI is unlikely to consider older players, reducing Pujara’s chances.
- Devdutt Padikkal or Sarfaraz Khan might be included in the Test squad.
- Pujara has been active in first-class cricket but hasn’t had impressive numbers.
- The BCCI will announce the team today, along with the new captain.
The England tour is a crucial series for the Indian team, and the selection of the squad will be closely watched. With the announcement expected today, fans are eagerly waiting to see who will be part of the team and who will lead them as the new captain.