Dublin: Sanju Samson is likely to be appointed as stand-in captain for India’s upcoming T20I tour of Ireland, with indications that several senior players could be rested ahead of the team’s busy international schedule.
India is scheduled to play two T20 internationals in Belfast on June 26 and 28. Reports suggest that selectors are considering sending an experimental squad for the short Ireland tour, while a stronger full-strength squad will be reserved for the white-ball series against England beginning on July 1.
India’s England tour includes five T20Is and three One-Day Internationals.
Sanju Samson in Contention for Captaincy
There have already been indications that Suryakumar Yadav will captain India during the T20I series in England. If senior players are rested for the Ireland leg, Sanju Samson is expected to lead the side for the two-match series.
A similar approach was adopted in 2024 after India’s T20 World Cup triumph, when a young squad led by Shubman Gill was sent to Zimbabwe for a T20I series.
Sources indicate that the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee is considering several young players for the Ireland tour. Rising talent Vaibhav Suryavanshi is reportedly in strong contention, while Yashasvi Jaiswal could make a return to the T20I setup.
Fast bowler Prince Yadav is also believed to have impressed selectors with his recent performances.
Final decisions are expected after discussions involving chief selector Ajit Agarkar, head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav.
Senior Players Seeking Rest
Several members of India’s recent T20 World Cup-winning squad are reportedly seeking a break due to heavy workloads.
Jasprit Bumrah has been playing continuously since September last year, and reports suggest workload management may be affecting his current form in the Indian Premier League.
There are indications that Bumrah could be rested for the Ireland tour and possibly the T20I series in England as well, with India prioritising the upcoming World Test Championship cycle and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Meanwhile, reports have also suggested that Suryakumar Yadav has been playing through discomfort, although neither the Board of Control for Cricket in India nor his IPL franchise has officially confirmed any injury concerns.
Senior players including Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya are also believed to be considering extended rest periods following the IPL season.
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