Priyank Panchal and Hanuma Vihari are in line for captaining the India A team which will take on the New Zealand A team who will be visiting India in September, reports suggested. Panchal is expected to be the first choice as captain having previously led the A side to South Africa last year.
However, Cricbuzz reported that in case Panchal misses out on the series for any reason, then Hanuma Vihari is the next potential captaincy candidate. Panchal is currently at the NCA in Bengaluru.
New Zealand A squad, featuring seven players with international experience, will be playing overseas for the first time in four years. The last time they played was in UAE in 2018, when they clashed with Pakistan A team.
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During the India tour, just like in 2017, the Kiwis will be playing three four-day games in Bengaluru and as many one-day games, in Chennai against the Indian A side. The New Zealand A squad departs for India on Friday (August 26).
Sources told Cricbuzz that many performers from Ranji Trophy are in line for India A call-up while the selectors also want the likes of Kuldeep Yadav in the team to make a case for themselves for the national side after a lengthy battle with form and fitness.
The focus for selectors is to pick players who can replace someone in the Indian team at short notice if there is an injury or something. The selection of the four-day team will be done with the four Australia home Tests in February-March in mind.
"Who would one have if Ravindra Jadeja is unavailable," sources have said, indicating the thinking of the selectors.
Sources also indicated that the chances of Shubman Gill being named captain, as some reports have suggested, are doubtful as he is believed to be negotiating with a county. Mohammed Siraj has already signed up with Warwickshire County and will play in end-of-season matches in September.
(Cricbuzz report)
