IND vs BAN: India to Debut New Opening Pair and Express Pacers in Gwalior T20
The much-awaited India vs Bangladesh T20I series kicks off on October 6, with India set to debut a new opening pair at Gwalior’s newly unveiled Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium. In this three-match series, the Indian team, still in the early stages of the Gautam Gambhir era, will look to identify new stars for the future. Captain Suryakumar Yadav confirmed in a pre-match press conference that Sanju Samson would open alongside Abhishek Sharma.
Sanju Samson’s Opportunity:
This series presents a significant opportunity for Sanju Samson, who has played 30 T20I matches over the past decade but hasn’t yet secured a permanent spot in the team. Much of this inconsistency stems from Samson’s fluctuating role in the lineup. For the first time, Samson has been assured multiple chances in a specific batting position, making this a critical moment for the Kerala cricketer to solidify his place in the team.
Can Samson Seize the Moment?
Samson has batted in eight different positions during his T20I career, with five appearances as an opener, including one of his two T20I fifties. As competition for the opening slot intensifies following Rohit Sharma’s retirement, Samson must seize this opportunity to establish himself.
Express Pacers Set for Debut?
India’s fast-bowling revolution is expected to continue with the likely debut of two exciting West Delhi pacers, Mayank Yadav and Harshit Rana, who impressed in IPL 2024. Both have the potential to become key players in India’s future pace attack. Mayank Yadav, who has consistently bowled over 150 kph, and Harshit Rana, who regularly clocks above 145 kph, will add a new dynamic to India’s bowling unit if given a chance in this series.
Gwalior Pitch and Conditions:
The Shrimant Madhavrao Scindia Cricket Stadium will host its first-ever international match, making the conditions unpredictable. Bangladesh’s Towhid Hridoy hinted that the pitch could be slow and low, but India remains confident of a competitive contest between bat and ball after their training session.
India will miss the services of all-rounder Shivam Dube, who has been ruled out of the first match due to a back injury. Tilak Varma is expected to replace him in the squad.
