The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has unveiled the squad for the upcoming Asian Games 2023, and it comes with some surprises and exclusions. Ruturaj Gaikwad has been appointed as the captain of the Indian team, leading a young side filled with IPL 2023 stars. However, Shikhar Dhawan has been snubbed for the tournament, raising questions about his future in the national team.
Let’s take a closer look at the squad and the implications of these selections: Ruturaj Gaikwad Leads Young India Squad at Asian Games 2023
Ruturaj Gaikwad to Lead
Ruturaj Gaikwad, known for his impressive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL), has been handed the captaincy for the Asian Games. This marks a significant moment in Gaikwad’s career as he takes on the responsibility of leading the Indian team for the first time.
IPL 2023 Stars Shine
The BCCI has rewarded the standout performers of IPL 2023 with a place in the Asian Games squad. Players like Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma, and Prabhsimran Singh have earned their maiden call-ups for the national team. Their consistent performances in the IPL have caught the selectors’ attention and earned them a chance to represent India at the prestigious event.
Shikhar Dhawan Snubbed
Shikhar Dhawan, despite being a Grade C contracted player, has been left out of the Asian Games squad. This decision raises speculations about Dhawan’s future in the Indian team. While some believe it could be a result of his absence from the T20 squad, others suggest that his exclusion may be due to the presence of other talented openers in the squad.
A Blend of Experience and Youth
The squad comprises a mix of experienced players and young talents. Players like Washington Sundar, Rahul Tripathi, and Shivam Dube have made comebacks to the national team, providing valuable experience and depth to the squad. At the same time, promising youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ravi Bishnoi have been given an opportunity to showcase their skills on the international stage.
Team India (Senior Men) squad for 19th Asian Games
Ruturaj Gaikwad (Captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rahul Tripathi, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Washington Sundar, Shahbaz Ahmed, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mukesh Kumar, Shivam Mavi, Shivam Dube, Prabhsimran Singh (wk).
Standby Players
The BCCI has also announced a list of standby players who could be called up in case of any injuries or unforeseen circumstances. Yash Thakur, Sai Kishore, Venkatesh Iyer, Deepak Hooda, and Sai Sudarsan have been placed on the standby list, ready to step in if needed.
The selection of Ruturaj Gaikwad as the captain and the inclusion of IPL 2023 stars in the Asian Games squad signal a shift towards promoting young talent and providing them with opportunities at the international level. While Shikhar Dhawan’s absence raises questions about his future, it also highlights the fierce competition for spots in the Indian team. As the Asian Games approach, all eyes will be on this young Indian side, eager to see them perform and make a mark on the international stage.
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