India vs West Indies: Shaw, Mayank in contention, Dhawan out?
What's the story
The Indian squad for the two-match Test series against the West Indies is set to be announced later this week. The selectors postponed the same as they want information regarding the fitness of Ishant Sharma and R Ashwin. Now reports have surfaced that Mayank Agarwal could be called upon alongside Prithvi Shaw. Further, Shikhar Dhawan is likely to be axed.
Dhawan
Dhawan's place in the Test team not confirmed
According to a report in The Indian Express, Dhawan is likely to get the axe since the selectors unhappy about his form in Test cricket. Dhawan has struggled in this format outside the subcontinent and we witnessed his issues in South Africa and England, earlier this year. With the tour of Australia coming up this year, the selectors want to try new faces.
Form
Dhawan hasn't replicated ODI form in Tests
Dhawan has been a superb performer for India in ODI cricket, but same thing cannot be said about Tests. Earlier, his strike partner Murali Vijay was axed as well, during the series against England. With KL Rahul saving himself with a superb ton in the fifth Test versus England, a newcomer could be in line to open the innings with him.
Shaw
18-year-old Shaw a handy option as an opener
Shaw was drafted into the Indian squad after the third Test against England. But he didn't get a game. It is highly possible that he might get the go-ahead for the series against West Indies. Shaw has been delivering consistent performances for India A and he is just 18. Selectors would want to try him out at the big stage.
Mayank
In-form Mayank deserves a place in the side
Mayank has been one name doing the rounds since quite sometime. Chief selector MSK Prasad had said a few weeks back that they regard the Karnataka player highly. Perhaps, now is the best moment to give him a call-up. Mayank has been one of the best batsmen in domestic circuit and has worked hard to deserve a place in the Test side.
Information
Rest of the team to have familiar faces
Rest of the team will have familiar faces with skipper Kohli set to return. It remains to be seen whether Karun Nair gets a chance. He has been warming the bench since a long time. Fitness tests for Ishant and Ashwin will happen on Saturday.