Overview

• India named Dhruv Jurel as the second wicketkeeper-batter ahead of Sanju Samson for the Australia ODIs after Rishabh Pant’s foot injury.
• Ajit Agarkar explained the choice by saying Jurel can cover a middle-order role if required on this tour.
• Mohammad Kaif said leaving out Samson was a wrong decision and argued Samson is the stronger option at No. 5 or 6.
• Kaif pointed to Samson’s six-hitting and effectiveness against spin, saying he could target Adam Zampa and suits the role in Australia.
• The three-match ODI series is scheduled for October 19–25, with Shubman Gill named captain and KL Rahul remaining the first-choice wicketkeeper.