Could vacant spots in the Test team be filled through the India A series?

New Delhi, Sep 15 (NationPress) As the cricketing community remains focused on the Men's T20 Asia Cup in the UAE, the action shifts to Lucknow, where Shreyas Iyer will lead a 15-member India A team against Australia A in the first of two multi-day matches commencing on Tuesday.

This two-match series is more than just a regular India A affair; it presents a valuable chance for players to assert their candidacy for selection in the Test squad and potentially secure a lasting position within the team.

Former India A and Gujarat player Priyank Panchal emphasizes the importance of this series, particularly as several Test spots are available ahead of India's home series against the West Indies starting in October.

“The India A series is crucial since players compete against those who are either currently playing international matches or are set to do so soon. The opposition is well-prepared and representing their country,” Panchal remarked.

“Performing well in this series will greatly enhance players' confidence, especially since it will be broadcast live, allowing them to showcase their skills and improve their chances of selection.”

“Australia is always a formidable opponent, known for their rigorous preparation and tough bowling strategies that test players thoroughly.”

“Performing well against a team like Australia A could lead to Test selection, especially with a few spots still open in the Test team,” Panchal noted in an exclusive interview with IANS.

For Iyer, who last played Test cricket in February 2024 against England, this series is a critical opportunity to make his case for inclusion in the upcoming two-match Test series against the West Indies, beginning on October 2 in Ahmedabad. He aims to remind selectors of his potential with the red ball.

“I’m thrilled to see Shreyas back. I tweeted that he should be in the main India series, not just this India A series, because he has certainly proven himself. However, this series is also crucial for him because he has been performing exceptionally well over the past few years, including this IPL,” Panchal commented.

The squad is a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents. Key Test players KL Rahul and Mohammed Siraj are included but will only participate in the second match, starting on September 23.

All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who faced a knee injury during the Test tour of England, is also part of the team, along with Prasidh Krishna, B Sai Sudharsan, and Abhimanyu Easwaran. N Jagadeesan, who was called up for the final Test against England as Rishabh Pant’s replacement, is also in the squad.

“I’m eager to see the young players like Sai Sudarshan, Ayush Badoni, and Devdutt Padikkal. Their performance in Lucknow will be exciting, particularly on a red-soil wicket with all players prepared,” Panchal expressed.

“These young talents could represent India in the coming years. I’m particularly hopeful about Badoni and Padikkal, while Shreyas Iyer, being an experienced captain, is expected to score heavily. Sai Sudharsan has gained confidence from his Test series in England, making it vital for him to perform,” he added.

The bowling lineup is well-rounded with seamers Khaleel Ahmed, Yash Thakur, and Gurnoor Brar, alongside spin-bowling all-rounders Manav Suthar, Harsh Dubey, and Tanush Kotian. The inclusion of Khaleel is significant given India's long quest for quality left-arm pace bowlers in Tests.

“Having a mix of experienced bowlers is crucial. Yash Thakur has excelled in the Ranji Trophy, and it’s vital to reward those who perform well in domestic cricket.”

“Khaleel Ahmed’s presence is essential as the Indian team needs a left-arm bowler. This Australia series will be crucial for all bowlers, including Khaleel and Yash Thakur,” he concluded.

Panchal also warned that Australia A will arrive well-prepared and determined for the series. “The Australian side is known for their thorough preparation and ability to perform against fast bowlers. Our fast bowlers must be ready for the challenge.”

“Understanding how to dismiss batters is equally important, as Australians usually perform well against fast bowlers but may struggle against spinners on Indian pitches. I hope the wickets provide support for both spin and pace,” he added.