(Image Source: AFP)
[Saba Sports News] The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced Ishan Kishan’s withdrawal from the upcoming Test series against South Africa for personal reasons. In his place, KS Bharat has been chosen as the replacement wicket-keeper for the series.
The BCCI’s statement highlighted, “Mr Ishan Kishan has requested to be released from the upcoming Test series against South Africa citing personal reasons. Following his request, he has been withdrawn from the Test squad. The Men’s Selection Committee has named Mr KS Bharat as his replacement.”
It’s important to note Bharat’s experience at the Test level. He has played in five Test matches for India, accumulating a total of 129 runs at an average of 18.42. While he’s not the first-choice wicketkeeper, with speculation about KL Rahul possibly taking on the wicketkeeping duties, Bharat’s inclusion offers another option. His form with the bat hasn’t been at its best, but this opportunity could provide the 30-year-old a chance to prove his mettle in the national team.
The series is set to begin with the first Test at the SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium in Centurion, starting December 26. This series poses a challenge for the Indian team, given their historically modest record in South Africa. However, the team will be looking to improve their performance in the two-match series.
The announced Indian squad for the Tests includes: Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jasprit Bumrah (Vice-Captain), Prasidh Krishna, and KS Bharat (wicketkeeper).