![Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1778998969166_Gautam Gambhir.jpg)
Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar [Source: AFP]
The Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is expected to meet soon to pick India’s squads for the upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan and the three-match ODI series. The Test match will be played in New Chandigarh from June 6 to 10, while the ODI matches are scheduled in Dharamshala, Lucknow, and Chennai later in June.
Moreover, the selectors are likely to avoid major experiments in the Test squad. Since India is preparing for important overseas tours against Sri Lanka and New Zealand, the management wants experienced players who can handle different conditions.
Therefore, most of the players who have been part of the Test setup in the last year are expected to retain their places.
Jasprit Bumrah’s Workload Under Watch
One of the biggest talking points is the workload management of Jasprit Bumrah. The star pacer has already played a hectic IPL season, and because of that, the team management wants to avoid overburdening him.
Reports suggest that Bumrah may either play the Test match or the ODI series, but not both. If he features in the Test against Afghanistan, he could be rested for the ODI games. On the other hand, if he skips the Test, then he may return for the 50-over matches.
Axar Patel’s Place Under Serious Threat
However, the biggest surprise could be the possible exclusion of veteran all-rounder Axar Patel from the Test squad. Reports indicate that Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar may look beyond Axar while selecting the spin bowling unit.
Currently, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, and Washington Sundar are reportedly automatic choices in the squad. As a result, Axar’s position is now under pressure.
Interestingly, this situation comes after India’s humiliating Test series defeat against South Africa at home. India lost the series 2-0, and the second Test defeat by 408 runs became the team’s biggest loss by runs in Test history. Naturally, the selectors are now searching for answers and possible changes.
Also Read: BCCI Identifies Jasprit Bumrah's Replacement In India ODI Squad From IPL
Why Axar Patel Is Facing The Heat
Although Axar Patel contributed 42 runs and picked up two wickets in the first Test against South Africa, his performances were not convincing enough. Furthermore, he was dropped from the playing XI in the second Test because the team management wanted an extra fast bowler for better balance.
Additionally, Axar bowled only 20 overs across the series and failed to make a major impact with the bat. His reckless dismissal in the second innings of the first Test also attracted criticism after India failed to chase a small target of 124 runs.
Consequently, reports suggest that Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar may now drop Axar Patel due to his underwhelming performances.
Young Players Could Replace Indian Senior Stars
Meanwhile, the selectors are also looking at fresh talent for the future. Young spinner Manav Suthar is reportedly being considered as competition for Axar Patel. Although experience may still help Axar survive, the pressure on him is clearly increasing.
At the same time, fast bowler Gurnoor Brar has impressed in domestic cricket and could receive his maiden call-up. Notably, the BCCI is now focusing strongly on rebuilding the team for the upcoming World Test Championship cycle and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
