Tilak Varma is the only surprise inclusion in a batting-heavy Indian side with just two spinners in Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, the latter edging Yuzvendra Chahal on the back of recent performances.
Also returning are Shreyas Iyer and K.L. Rahul, both sidelined for a while with injuries. Shreyas has got the all-clear, while Rahul had picked up a niggle in the last few days but should be available by the time the tournament kicks off, according to Ajit Agarkar, chairman of selectors.
“With Tilak we saw some real performance and temperament and this gives us an opportunity to give him some more exposure. Also as a left-hander he looks promising. When the time comes for that (World Cup selection) we will make the decision,” Agarkar told the media. The World Cup side is expected to be named on Sept. 5, midway through the Asia Cup.
