The Indian national selectors were supposed to finalize the two-Test squad against the West Indies on Wednesday. However, there's been a slight change in the schedule. Today, on Thursday afternoon, the chairman of the national selection committee, Ajit Agarkar, will announce the Test squad.
Why the change of date?
According to a source within the Board of Control for Cricket in India, the day was altered to facilitate a team selection meeting with Test captain Shubman Gill. Initially, the meeting was slated for Wednesday afternoon. Given Shubman's playing commitments, there wasn't an opportunity for discussions with him earlier.
India will play two Tests against the West Indies from October 2-6 and 10-14. In today's discussions, the name of Manav Suthar is emerging as a potential new face. The left-arm spinner from Rajasthan is currently playing for India 'A' in Lucknow. But that's not all.
He has also claimed five wickets in the first innings against Australia 'A'. Cricket circles speculate that the 23-year-old Manav might be included in the squad to groom a left-arm spinner alongside Ravindra Jadeja.
Jasprit Bumrah is also part of the discussions. There's speculation that he might be rested for the red-ball series against the Caribbeans to manage his workload. However, one source claims that Bumrah has expressed interest to the board officials about playing in the upcoming home series. The selection meeting may also discuss Karun Nair. Sarfaraz Khan's name is also in circulation.
