Rohit Sharma
Choosing between a third spinner and an extra batsman will be the topic of discussion when the three-member national selection panel decides on the Indian squad for the Champions Trophy, starting June 1 in England.
While 13 of the 15 members are automatic selection, there could be a bit of discussion regarding a couple of places. With KL Rahul out of contention, there is no debate on the two opening slots that will be occupied by Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. Both are experienced and have been an integral part of the 2013 trophy winning team. Skipper Virat Kohli comes in at No. 3 slot. Yuvraj Singh and Kedar Jadhav have also sealed their spots among the top five batsmen. MS Dhoni is expected to don the big gloves and also is the sixth batsman in the side. Hardik Pandya has sealed his spot as an all-rounder and fifth seamer.
The seventh batsman’s slot is expected to be taken by Manish Pandey. However if India select an eighth batsman, the choice will be between senior pro Ajinkya Rahane and rookie Rishabh Pant (purely as a batsman).