The New Zealand series will be the audition for some Indian cricketers to get on the flight to South Africa. The series at the Rainbow Nation is important in the current context. In this article, we take a look at five players who could get dropped for the South Africa tour if they have a disappointing New Zealand series.
There have been a few players who are struggling for form in recent months. The New Zealand series will be important for these cricketers to make an impact. Else, there are chances that they could get dropped for the South Africa Tour.
1) Mayank Agarwal
Mayank Agarwal is one of the players who could get dropped for the South Africa tour if they have a disappointing New Zealand series. With KL Rahul claiming his spot again, Mayank has further fallen down the pecking order. Hence, if he does not perform well against the Kiwis, he could lose his place. The likes of Priyank Panchal are doing well and might get an option as the reserve opener. For Mayank, he has got scattered chances in recent months and therefore, the outing against New Zealand will be important for his career.
2) Ajinkya Rahane
Although Ajinkya Rahane is the captain for the first test, it would not be a surprise if he gets dropped altogether. His form has been poor and many have started questioning his place in the team. Yes, he has good experience but the same did not help India in England. Hence, with players such as Shreyas Iyer stepping up, Rahane could lose his spot if he does not come good against the Kiwis.
3) Axar Patel
South Africa will assist pacers and hence, India might not take a lot of spinners. Therefore, Axar Patel could miss out on the chance to travel to South Africa. Ravindra Jadeja also possesses the same attributes and with Jaddu doing well with the bat, he is undroppable. R Ashwin is of course the other spin option. India could choose an extra batsman or pacer in the place of Axar. That said, if the Gujarat all-rounder does well against New Zealand, the selectors might be pressurized to pick him.
4) Ishant Sharma
Ishant Sharma is the senior most pacer in Team India right now. However, the lanky bowler’s form has been off-colour in recent months. He did not look like his old self in England. While Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj are certain to get selected, Umesh Yadav is also likely to nail his spot. India could be inclined to try a new player like Umran Malik or Prasidh Krishna if Ishant does not do well against the Kiwis.
5) Wriddhiman Saha
Wriddhiman Saha is in the final stages of his career. He has already failed in one chance against New Zealand, and if the same continues, he could find it hard to get one more opportunity. KS Bharat looks ready to be Rishabh Pant’s backup with the Andhra cricketer having impressed with the bat as well.
