India faces a setback ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, with Khaleel Ahmed ruled out due to a niggle. Ahmed played a crucial role in India’s preparations to counter Australia’s Mitchell Starc, simulating the left-arm pacer’s bowling in practice sessions.
Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star Yash Dayal has replaced him as a like-for-like replacement. Dayal, who recently featured in India’s tour of New Zealand, will now join the squad in Perth as a travelling reserve. A BCCI source explained that Dayal’s inclusion was necessary to maintain the simulation plan for Starc. Originally set to play an A Test, Dayal was redirected to South Africa but has now joined the senior setup.
“It was a like-for-like replacement because the Indian team needs to do a simulation for Mitchell Starc,” the source said. “If Khaleel can’t bowl, there was no point in keeping him back.”
In another update, India has added Devdutt Padikkal to the main squad. The young batter recently played for India A and will serve as a backup, as Shubman Gill’s participation in the first Test remains uncertain. Gill is dealing with a fitness issue, and the team will decide on his availability on the morning of the match.
India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has expressed optimism about Gill’s chances of playing, stating the Gujarat Titans captain is still in contention. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises intense action as India grapples with last-minute adjustments to their squad.
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