BCCI names Test squad for New Zealand; Akash Deep returns, Shami left out
Akash Deep's recall and Shami's continued omission highlight the selection committee's preference for current red-ball form over past international pedigree.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India announced a 15-member squad for the two-Test series in New Zealand. Shubman Gill will captain the side, with KL Rahul as vice-captain. Akash Deep returns after recovering from a stress fracture, while Mohammed Shami was not recalled despite taking five wickets in Bengal's Ranji Trophy opener.
Jasprit Bumrah returns for the Tests after resting during recent white-ball assignments. Rishabh Pant was included subject to fitness following a side strain. Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav were retained, while left-arm spinner Manav Suthar was omitted. Anshul Kamboj replaced Gurnoor Brar in the squad.
The first Test begins in Wellington on November 19, four days after the conclusion of the five-match ODI series. Yashasvi Jaiswal will play three India A matches before joining the Test squad. The second Test is scheduled for Christchurch from November 27.
CricHubb Take
The decision to leave Shami out despite his recent Ranji wickets suggests the selectors are prioritising proven fitness and match readiness over reputation when building a pace attack for seaming New Zealand conditions.