However, the team combination is one of the few issues that might bother the skipper. It is crucial in this context, that players who get the opportunity in this series try and do justice to their place in the playing XI. Here are few players for whom the stage is set in this series, they just need to come out and put up a good performance.
#4. Lokesh Rahul
The Karnataka batsman has knocked the door to get his chance in the team. He has been in scarcely believable form this season and he would like to continue with his form in this limited overs series to try and be a regular member in all the three formats. Rahul has shown that he has the grit to bat at any number that the team needs him to bat at, but prefers to bat at the top order. Although it could be a massive move to play him at No. 3, it could be a gamble worth taking in this 50 overs series against the England team.
#3. Shardul Thakur
Shardul Thakur’s stint at England could further cement his place in the limited overs format. With India’s death overs specialist - Bumrah, not fit to don the Indian blues, Shardul could be entrusted with the responsibility of bowling the crucial death overs where more often than not, the matches are decided. If Thakur gets a really good series under his belt in England, the captains and selectors will have a tough time selecting the bowlers for the upcoming assignments; a good problem to have though.
#2. Shreyas Iyer
Although it is too early a stage in his international career, Shreyas could be a huge boost to that already strong middle order. It could well be a matter of nerves at this level since there is not much doubt about his ability as a batsman. The fact that his IPL franchise has invested in him as a captain, means that they see him as a future prospect, one that could very well make a mark in International Cricket.
#1. Suresh Raina
The south paw is one of India’s limited overs greats and played a significant role when India won the World Cup in 2011. However, a few low scores and fitness issues meant that Raina wasn’t a part of the national squad for quite some time. Since his comeback in the T20 format, Raina has only got better. Although he hasn’t been used much as a bowler, Raina has been brilliant with the bat and on the field. It remains to be seen whether Raina can produce a similar kind of performance in 50 overs Cricket. If Raina fires, it could mean that India will have another experienced player in the 2019 World Cup squad.
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