Reports: Captain Rohit Sharma to return for West Indies series, Bhuvneshwar Kumar to face axe

In what can be called a massive development, Rohit Sharma is set to return to India’s squad for the three-match ODI series against West Indies next month. The right-handed batter, who’s now India’s full-time captain in white-ball cricket, missed the recently-concluded South Africa tour due to a hamstring injury. However, the veteran opener has now regained full fitness and is set to lead the troop against the Caribbean team.

For the unversed, West Indies will travel India for three ODIs and as many T20Is, staring from February 6. This will be Rohit’s maiden assignment as full-time ODI captain and he would like to do well. With Sharma returning, KL Rahul, who led India in South Africa ODIs, is likely to slot back to the middle-order, at least in ODIs.

The likes of Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan will continue being a vital part of the top order. Meanwhile, India suffered a humiliating 0-3 defeat in the preceding ODI series against the Proteas team. Hence, the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee is expected to make some tough calls. As per reports, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is set to face the axe after a lackluster show in the rainbow nation. At the same time, pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah is likely to be rested.

Rohit Sharma has worked really hard on his fitness: Source

“Though we haven’t received Rohit’s fitness report from the NCA yet, what we know is he has worked really hard on his fitness and is on course to return to the side. It is important for the team to have your captain and Rohit’s presence will bring a lot more confidence,” a source privy to developments was quoted as saying by News9.

“West Indies will fly in as soon as they complete their series against England and we are well prepared to host them in our bio-secure bubbles in Ahmedabad and Kolkata,” the source added. Meanwhile, all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya are likely to stay away from action for some more time.

However, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel are likely to be available and selected. As Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur showcased their all-round abilities against South Africa, the Indian team management will have quite a few options for the all-rounder’s spot.