India ‘A’ Tour of South Africa: Senior Players Eyeing ‘Shadow Tour’ Ahead of Test Series

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is contemplating sending some senior Test specialists ahead of the all-important Test series against South Africa. This early stint is part of India ‘A’ side’s three-match ‘shadow tour’ scheduled for next month. The ‘A’ team tours serve as a precursor to the senior team’s travels, offering valuable match practice for the players.

A Return to the ‘A’ Team Tradition

After a hiatus due to the focus on the ODI World Cup, the BCCI is reinstating the tradition of arranging ‘A’ team tours corresponding to the senior team’s Test matches. This strategic move ensures that domestic performers have an opportunity to exhibit their skills in a series of five to six first-class format games from December to January.

In the upcoming ‘shadow tour,’ there are three four-day Tests lined up against South Africa ‘A’ in the following month. The BCCI is set to announce the team for these encounters, and sources indicate that consistent young performers will share the field with seniors requiring game time before the crucial two-match Test series in South Africa.

While rising talents like Abhimanyu Easwaran, B Sai Sudharsan, Yash Dhull, Kona Bharat, Upendra Yadav, and Saurabh Kumar are expected to feature, there is speculation about the involvement of senior players such as Ajinkya Rahane, Ravichandran Ashwin, and Jaydev Unadkat. These seasoned players might get the opportunity to play at least one four-day game as a preparatory measure for the upcoming African challenge.

Focus on Young Pacers and Spin Options

Young pacers like Vidwath Kaverappa, Kuldeep Sen, Harshit Rana, and Umran Malik are likely to be in the mix, along with experienced campaigners like Navdeep Saini. The BCCI might also discuss the inclusion of Test discard Jayant Yadav and Services off-spinner Pulkit Narang, two off-spinners who often join India nets during Test series.

In the batting department, attention will be on Mayank Agarwal, who was the highest run-scorer in the previous Ranji Trophy season. However, with the presence of Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jasiwal, and Shubman Gill in the squad, Agarwal’s recall remains uncertain. The selectors will weigh their options and consider the team’s composition for the South Africa tour.