ENG Vs IND, 2018: Three Surprising Inclusion in Indian Test Squad

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced 18-man Indian Test squad for the first three Tests against England. In fact, there are some expected names in the Test team. However, there were also some surprising inclusions as well.

Rishabh Pant received his maiden Test call while young fast bowler Shardul Thakur also made the cut into the much-awaited squad.

Meanwhile, middle-order batsman Karun Nair, who is currently leading India A also made a comeback into the Test fold.

Have a detailed look at the surprising inclusion in the Indian test squad.

1. Rishabh Pant:

It was least expected that Rishabh Pant will be included as a backup wicketkeeper in the Test team. In fact, everyone was expecting that Parthiv Patel will get a chance.

Pant is currently playing for the India A side. Therefore, Pant’s exposure to the English conditions will help him. The left-hander is currently batting on unbeaten 54 in the unofficial four-day match against England Lions.

The Delhi-based batsman had also scored a quickfire 67 off just 71 balls in the second unofficial Test match against Windies A – to take India over the line by five wickets.

Eventually, the selectors have rewarded the youngster for his good run of form in the England conditions. Pant had also scored 158 runs in the tri-series against England Lions and Windies A.

Furthermore, the southpaw was in fine form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Delhi Daredevils.

2. Shardul Thakur:

Shardul Thakur was also able to break into the Test squad. The Mumbai-based fast bowler has also spent some time with the India A side on the recent tour to England.

Thakur’s selection is also made on the same basis. He had scalped eight wickets in the four matches of the tri-series involving England Lions and Windies A.

In fact, Thakur was the part of India’s playing XI in the ODI decider in Leeds. The fast bowler took a solitary and conceded 51 runs, in his 10-over quota.

3. Karun Nair:

Karun Nair is currently leading the India A side on the England tour. However, the Karnataka-based batsman has bagged his chance in the Test team. Nair had scored a triple hundred against England at Chennai in 2016.

In fact, his consistent performance in the domestic circuit has helped him to earn his place in the Test team.

Meanwhile, as Rohit Sharma has failed to cement his place in the longest format, selectors have decided to invest more in Nair. Therefore, it would be a perfect opportunity for him to prove his mettle if he is given his opportunity in the final XI.