The Indian team management, led by head coach Rahul Dravid, faced criticism for not playing regular captain Rohit Sharma and former skipper Virat Kohli in the second and third ODI against the West Indies. Many questioned why they were included in the ODI squad if they were not going to play, suggesting that allowing them to return home would have been a more logical approach.

Additionally, fans were perplexed by the batting order changes in the three-match ODI series, with players being shuffled between different positions. Unbeknownst to fans and critics, the fitness updates of Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul played a significant role in the team’s decisions. Both players are considered key members of India’s ODI XI, but their availability for the upcoming Asia Cup is in doubt due to injuries.

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As pert he reports in Hindustan Times, the BCCI released a medical update stating that while they have resumed batting in the nets, they are far from reaching a stage where they can field for a full 50 overs in a match. Due to Iyer and Rahul’s uncertain fitness, the team management had to alter their plans and prepare backups for these crucial positions. Players like Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav were given opportunities to prove their worth in the absence of Rahul and Iyer.

If the duo fails to recover in time for the Asia Cup, they will have limited chances to prove their match fitness for the World Cup. In light of the situation, Suryakumar Yadav’s role has been adjusted to bat at No.6 instead of No.4, allowing him to bat freely and utilize the final overs of the match, similar to a T20I format.

This leaves India with limited options for the No.4 position, making Samson an important backup choice. The Kerala cricketer has displayed his ability to attack spinners and can be a valuable asset if Iyer is unable to recover in time.

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As the Asia Cup and World Cup approaches, the Indian team management and selectors will closely monitor the fitness progress of Iyer and Rahul before making final decisions about their inclusion in the squad. A player’s match fitness will be a crucial factor in selecting the best possible XI for these high-stakes tournaments.