India kicked off the five-match T20I series against Australia on a positive note, securing back-to-back victories. However, as they geared up for the third T20I, an unexpected change occurred in their squad. Unfortunately, Mukesh Kumar couldn’t join the team in Guwahati, leading to his replacement by Deepak Chahar in the squad.
The seasoned players are taking a breather, and the reins of the Indian team now rest in the hands of Suryakumar Yadav, who has been given the captaincy. With two victories under their belt, the home team stands on the verge of securing the series as they gear up for the third match at Guwahati’s Barsapara Cricket Stadium this Tuesday.
Matthew Wade, the Australian captain, won the toss and opted to field. The Australian lineup sees several changes, with two World Cup-winning players heading back home and fresh faces joining the squad. Travis Head, back in action after a break in the first two games, is making a return to the playing XI. Meanwhile, India has tweaked their lineup with one change from the previous match.
Before the commencement of the third T20I, India found themselves making an unexpected change to their squad. Mukesh Kumar, due to his marriage commitments, did not accompany the team to Guwahati, resulting in his absence from the squad. Consequently, Avesh Khan was drafted into the playing XI as his replacement for the third game.
In a subsequent development, the BCCI decided to bolster the squad by including pace-bowling all-rounder Deepak Chahar for the upcoming matches. This decision was officially announced by the BCCI on Twitter (now X). The statement clarified that Mukesh would be back and available for the 4th T20I, as he had sought leave specifically for the third game due to his marriage.
BCCI’s statement read, “Update: Fast bowler Mukesh Kumar made a request to BCCI to be released from India’s squad ahead of the third T20I against Australia in Guwahati. Mukesh is getting married and has been granted leave for the duration of his wedding festivities. He will join the squad ahead of the 4th T20I in Raipur. Pacer Deepak Chahar has been added to India’s squad for the remainder of the series.”
Deepak Chahar last featured in a T20I for India back in October 2022 during a home clash against South Africa. With 24 T20Is under his belt, he has notched up 29 wickets at an economy rate of 8.17. Chahar is a reliable new-ball bowler, showcasing the ability to swing the ball in both directions. Beyond his bowling prowess, he’s no slouch with the bat, capable of smashing some impressive sixes. Looking ahead, India stands a good chance in the upcoming third game, where a victory could secure an unassailable 3-0 lead, setting the stage for two more matches.
