Hardik, Umran and Surya in focus during training ahead of first ODI at Kensington Oval | WIvsIND
Xtra Time Web Desk: All eyes were on Hardik Pandya during the training session of the Indian team at the Kensington Oval ahead of Thursday’s first ODI. The all rounder was seen taking a few quick short sprints under strength and condition coach Soham Desai. He then walked to the nets area to have a bowl. Hardik was seen bowling full throttle in the nets, blowing away any doubts about his availability.
Another individual who caught the most attention during the Indian nets was Umran Malik. The fast bowler from Jammu & Kashmir was seen having a long word with Rahul Dravid and bowling coach Paras Mhambrey. Umran, who is making a comeback in Indian white ball team was seen prepared to give his best at the training session.
The third cricketer who also got a bit of focus was Suryakumar Yadav. Sky was also seen having a chat with Head Coach Rahul Dravid before nets.
The upcoming three match ODI series is part of the 12 matches the Indian team will play in the lead up to the World Cup at home in October and November. The three match ODI series against West starting kickstarts with the first ODI on July 27 in Barbados. The three one day internationals will act as the final preparation before the team embarks on Asia Cup and World Cup.
The three match ODI series presents an excellent opportunity for players like Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Umran Malik to shine.
Suryakumar Yadav has an opportunity to establish himself as a contender for the crucial No. 4 spot. More, since there is some doubt about Shreyas Iyer's fitness.
The three ODIs also presents a big opportunity to the two wicketkeeper batters Ishan Kishan and Sanju Samson. As far as the first ODI is concerned, it looks like Ishan will get the nod ahead of Sanju. Both Ishan and Sanju are vying to cement their spot in the ODI side.
The openers are likely to be Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill. On the bowling front, Mohammed Siraj will lead the bowling attack along with Umran Malik. One among Jaydev Unadkat, Mukesh Kumar, and Shardul Thakur will be the third pace bowling option. Hardik too will be available. As far as spinners are concerned Ravindra Jadeja walks into the playing XI. It will be interesting whether the visitors will go in with an extra spinner. In that case it will be either Kuldeep Yadav or Yuzuvendra Chahal.
Overall, it was an intense practice session for the visitors with all the batters and bowlers have a fair practice session. Let’s take a look at some more practice visuals of the Indian team.
