Nidahas Trophy 2018: India's Bench Strength Set to Walk in the Playing XI Against Sri Lanka

In all probability, the Indian team will give a chance of experienced players like KL Rahul and Axar Patel in the fourth game of the Nidahas Trophy 2018.

As per the reports, these two had an extended practice session on the eve of the game.

Once a regular member of the limited-overs side, Axar Patel’s presence in the playing XI dwindled after he suffered an injury in his thumb during Chennai Test against England in late 2016.

It first kept him off the squad and then, he became irregular in playing XI. On the other hand, KL Rahul has not been given enough chances in the limited-overs format. He had already been dropped from the ODI team and mostly sits out during T20Is.

He wasn’t given a chance in even a single T20I in South Africa. In all probability, these two will make a comeback to the playing XI.

Reports also suggest Deepak Hooda also had a session right at the start.

He is in contention to make his debut during the fourth T20I. However, it will be interesting to see whom he replaces.

Washington Sundar, who is also an all-rounder like Hooda, had bowled well and cannot be made to sit out.

If India looks to allow Hooda bat at a higher position, then he can replace Sundar, as he is known for taking on bowlers right from the start.

He had also done well in the IPL and can come in the playing XI. He received his maiden national call-up during T20I series against Sri Lanka last year but did not make his debut. Also, Rishabh Pant is expected to sit out of the third game.

He had failed to capitalise on the opportunity provided to him.

In fact, he was promoted to number three in the second game so as he could adjust himself but he failed and got dismissed for seven.

With the fourth game being an important one for India, the side needs experience of KL Rahul and Axar Patel, and they are expected to make a way in playing XI.

Rohit’s form will also be crucial in this contest, as he has been going through a rough patch from past few matches.

India will face Sri Lanka in the fourth game of the tri-series today (March 12) at R Premadasa Stadium, Colombo.

Here is the news feed –

Sreenath Arvind retires from domestic cricket

Steve Waugh praises Virat Kohli for his character