Indian cricketer Suryakumar Yadav is set to miss the T20I series against Afghanistan due to an ankle injury sustained during the South Africa series, according to reports. This twist of fate may keep him out of action for approximately six weeks, raising concerns about his immediate participation.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed Suryakumar’s absence and outlined his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Sources within the BCCI disclosed that the 31-year-old’s return would be assessed through a stint in the Ranji Trophy for Mumbai in February, serving as a fitness check before the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL).
“Surya has reported to NCA for rehab work, and the Medical Science team has currently ruled him injured. He won’t be able to play against Afghanistan, which starts in three weeks. Since he is unlikely to be selected for Tests, he will possibly play for Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy in February to check his fitness before playing in the IPL,” a source privy to BCCI told IANS.
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With key players like Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya unavailable, the selectors may find themselves in a captaincy conundrum. Speculations about Rohit Sharma potentially leading the side emerged unless the selectors opt for Ravindra Jadeja as a temporary captain. However, concerns over Jadeja’s workload surfaced, given his commitment to all five Tests against England.
Adding to the challenges, Ruturaj Gaikwad, who led the squad at the Asian Games, is sidelined due to a broken finger, further limiting the available batting options.
The selectors also face a dilemma over the wicketkeeper position, as Ishan Kishan withdrew from the South Africa Tests citing “personal reasons.” Reports suggest a prioritization of mental health after a year on the road, with Jitesh Sharma touted as the replacement behind the stumps.
Respecting the players’ privacy, the BCCI refrained from prying into Kishan’s decision, acknowledging the toll that inconsistent selections can take on a player’s mental well-being.
As the team regroups to face Afghanistan, the challenges extend beyond the field, emphasizing the delicate balance between performance and player well-being in the demanding world of international cricket.
-IANS
