Shivam Dube, known for his versatility, could step in, potentially giving Rinku Singh a rest.
With the series already clinched, India might consider rotating the squad in the upcoming 5th and final T20I against Australia. While the opening pair of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad has been impressive, Captain Suryakumar Yadav is likely to maintain the successful partnership. Nevertheless, in the inconsequential match, Shivam Dube, known for his versatility, could step in, potentially giving Rinku Singh a rest.
Opening Pair: Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad
The left-hand, right-hand combination of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad has consistently delivered stellar performances for the Indian team. With the T20 World Cup six months away, providing them with more opportunities appears crucial.
Middle Order: Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, Jitesh Sharma
Despite Shreyas Iyer’s subdued performance with the bat in the 4th T20I, he is expected to retain his place in the playing XI. Suryakumar Yadav and Jitesh Sharma are likely to continue anchoring the middle order.
Read More: IPL 2024: List of retained and released players of all teams
All-rounders: Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar
Although Axar Patel excelled with the ball in the previous T20I, there is a possibility that Washington Sundar could feature in the 5th T20I. However, deciding between the two might pose a challenge for the team management. One of Rinku Singh or Shivam Dube will get a nod to play in the 5th and final T20I.
Bowlers: Deepak Chahar, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar, and Ravi Bishnoi
Despite Deepak Chahar’s expensive spell in the 4th T20I, conceding 44 runs in 4 overs, his all-round abilities make him a crucial part of India’s T20 World Cup plans. Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar, and Ravi Bishnoi are expected to retain their positions.
Probable India XI vs Australia, 5th T20I: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Jitesh Sharma (w), Rinku Singh/Shivam Dube, Axar Patel/Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Deepak Chahar, Avesh Khan, Mukesh Kumar.
Read More: T20 World Cup 2024: Unveiling New Formats, Groups, and Super 8 Stage
Rishabh Pant's explosive last-over blitz ignites IPL 2024 amid T20 World Cup comeback talks