Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli Expected to Rest for Sri Lanka ODI Series; Hardik Pandya or KL Rahul to Lead
In a prudent move to manage workload and prioritize key tournaments, India's star players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are likely to be rested for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka in August. This break will provide the veteran batters with much-needed respite after an arduous three-month stretch that encompassed the grueling Indian Premier League (IPL) and the recently concluded T20 World Cup.
While both Rohit and Kohli remain indispensable figures in India's ODI setup, the upcoming series against England prior to the Champions Trophy will provide ample practice opportunities. With a packed schedule of 10 Test matches between September and January, including crucial encounters against Bangladesh, New Zealand, and Australia, the team management has opted to prioritize the longest format.
In Rohit's absence, vice-captain Hardik Pandya emerges as the frontrunner to lead the side. Pandya's impressive all-around abilities and experience as captain for the Gujarat Titans in the IPL make him a strong contender for the role. However, KL Rahul, who capably led the ODI squad in South Africa earlier this year, remains a viable option as well.
The Champions Trophy will happen in mid-February and they don't need to go for a week-long 3 match ODIs in Sri Lanka, a BCCI source emphasized. If they want, they are most welcome but I guess they would want rest.
With both Rohit and Kohli electing to prioritize rest, the Sri Lanka ODIs present an opportunity for other players to showcase their skills and stake a claim for a spot in the team. The series will serve as valuable preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy, where India will be eager to reclaim the title they last won in 2013.
While the absence of Rohit and Kohli will undoubtedly be felt, the team management's decision to prioritize their well-being is a testament to the long-term vision for the side. With a packed schedule ahead, it is imperative to manage the workload of key players to ensure their peak performance when it matters most.
