Xtra Time Web Desk: The Indian cricket team had an optional training session on Tuesday at the Oval with captain Rohit Sharma turning up along with KS Bharat, Ravichandran Ashwin, Umesh Yadav and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
KS Bharat looks to be the frontrunner at this stage to keep his place in the test side for the WTC Final 2023. But Ishan too has a chance as captain Rohit Sharma in his pre match press conference said they want to keep all 15 players ready.
The wicket-keeper batter from Andhra Pradesh walked into bat first at the nets. He was seen taking throwdowns. Left hander Yashasvi Jaiswal also batted alongside Bharat. Team India captain Rohit Sharma was padded up next to bat. Rohit had a close look at the wicket before going into bat. But unfortunately, Rohit injured his left thumb after being hit by a rising ball from throwdown specialist Raghu. He did not bat again in the nets, raising speculations about his availability. But sources in the Indian team says Rohit’s injury is not so serious. He was seen having a discussion with selection committee chairman Shivsundar Das and Head Coach Rahul Dravid.
Ravichandran Ashwin had a knock in the middle indicating that their is a good chance of India fielding a two spin attack. In that case the off spinner will be joined by Ravindra Jadeja.
If Tuesday’s optional practice session is any indications, then Umesh Yadav might not get a chance in the playing XI. The Vidarbha pacer was seen doing some fitness drills before bowling at the nets.
The much-awaited ICC World Test Championship Final 2023 between India and Australia will take place at the Oval from Wednesday, June 7.