Hardik Pandya named captain of T20I squad against Sri Lanka as phasing out starts

All-rounder Hardik Pandya was on Tuesday named as India’s T20I captain for the upcoming three-match series against Sri Lanka. With Rohit Sharma retaining the ODI leadership role in what seems to be a start of transition in Indian cricket. Kohli and KL Rahul are also not part of the shortest format and there is an indication that the duo along with Rohit might not be picked again keeping 2024 T20 World Cup in mind.

Hardik Pandya’s elevation is a significant appointment as captain, as Rohit’s for the Sri Lanka ODIs while Suryakumar Yadav. For his mindblowing one year, is now the new vice-captain in T20Is. Hardik Pandya, who led Gujarat Titans to IPL triumph during the last edition. Rohit’s replacement after India lost to England in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup playing archaic cricket. Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rahul Tripathi, two powerhouse IPL performers, made it to the T20 side.

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Hardik Pandya captain for SL T20i; Dhawan axed from ODIs

While Rohit is still recovering from a thumb dislocation. The BCCI press release doesn’t state if it is a permanent change or just for one series. The T20I team has a fresh look with two uncapped pacers Shivam Mavi and Mukesh Kumar introduced into the shortest format. Mavi auctioned by Titans for Rs 6 crore. While Bengal’s Mukesh picked by Delhi Capitals for Rs 5.50 crore. The ODI side boasts a more experienced look with Mohammed Shami coming back from shoulder injury.

India’s squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: Hardik Pandya (Captain), Ishan Kishan (WK), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav (VC), Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, Sanju Samson, Washington Sundar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Harshal Patel, Umran Malik, Shivam Mavi, Mukesh Kumar.