Yuvraj Singh likely to figure in World T20 squad

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Seasoned top-order batsman Yuvraj Singh is likely to be named in the 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup to be held in Sri Lanka in September.

The national selection committee headed by Kris Srikkanth is scheduled to meet in Mumbai on August 10 (Friday) to select the team for the Test and T20 home series against New Zealand, the T20 World Cup and the A team tour to new Zealand.

Yuvraj who is recuperating after undergoing treatment for a rare germ cell cancer had resumed training recently.

Rohit Sharma who had a horrendous run in the ODI series in Sri Lanka is expected to make way for Yuvraj.

“If Yuvraj proves his match fitness then there is no reason why he should not be in the World Cup squad,” quipped a selector. Manoj Tiwary will continue to hold his spot.

With no other major fitness issues barring Virender Sehwag missing the one-off T20 on Wednesday, the batting unit could wear a similar look in Lanka.

Either left-arm spinner Pragyan Ojha or leggie Rahul Sharma could make way for L. Balaji. The Tamil Nadu seamer had impressed in the IPL for champions Kolkata.

“Balaji’s variations and change of pace should come in handy during the World Cup,” said a source close to the selection committee.

There are many part-time bowlers who have done an adequate job. The wickets in Lanka are on the slower side and if the team management pushes for three specialist spinners then it could be a toss up between Ashok Dinda and Umesh Yadav for the final bowling slot.

The Test team is not expected to have major changes. Cheteswar Pujara is tipped to replace Rahul Dravid who announced his retirement after the Test series against Australia. S. Badrinath and Ajinkya Rahane will fight for the additional batting spot.

Suresh Raina will also remain in contention, however the selectors, in the past have been critical of his ability to handle the short ball.

The bowling department could see the return of Ishant Sharma (subject to fitness). Ojha and R. Ashwin will continue to be the primary spinners while Irfan Pathan could force a comeback post his strong all-round show in Sri Lanka.

The selectors are expected to name only a solitary wicket-keeper (skipper MS Dhoni) for the home series. The first Test against New Zealand is to be played in Hyderabad from August 23.