Shivam Dube Joins India’s T20I Squad Amid Injury Setbacks
The senior selection committee has called upon Shivam Dube to join India’s squad for the ongoing five-match T20I series against England. This bold move comes after Nitish Kumar Reddy sustained a side strain during a practice session in Chennai on January 24, ruling him out of the series.
Dube, a part of India’s World Cup-winning campaign last year, will replace Reddy and is set to join the Indian team in Rajkot. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Reddy’s recovery will take place at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.
Meanwhile, Rinku Singh, who suffered a low back spasm during the first T20I at Eden Gardens, has also been sidelined for the second and third matches. Ramandeep Singh has been brought in as his replacement.
Injury Troubles and India’s Bold Backup Plan
The injuries to Reddy and Singh have tested India’s depth in the ongoing series. Dube’s inclusion raises questions, especially given his recent performance in domestic cricket. Representing Mumbai in the Ranji Trophy match against Jammu and Kashmir, Dube had a forgettable outing, scoring a duck in both innings as Mumbai faced a crushing defeat.
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However, his contributions in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he helped Mumbai clinch the title, seem to have convinced the selectors of his value.
India’s Schedule and Current Standing
India began the series with a commanding win at Eden Gardens and will look to extend their lead in the second T20I on Saturday in Chennai. The series moves to Rajkot on Tuesday for the third match, followed by games in Pune and Mumbai.
Despite the injury setbacks, India’s bench strength has proven reliable, with all eyes on Shivam Dube as he makes a return to the international stage. Will his inclusion bolster India’s chances, or will the team miss the likes of Reddy and Singh in the coming matches?
