India’s squad for the Sri Lanka T20I series saw some surprises, with the biggest talking point being the promotion of Suryakumar Yadav as the new captain. Hardik Pandya was overlooked by the national selectors despite being India’s vice-captain in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.

Another surprise came in the form of Riyan Parag who was selected in the ODI squad. The Assam batter made his India debut against Zimbabwe in the five-match T20I series. He failed with the bat but managed to retain his place in the shortest format side for the Sri Lanka series. On the other hand, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Abhishek Sharma were dropped despite magnificent performances.

A Times of India report has revealed that new head coach Gautam Gambhir wanted Tilak Varma in the team but due to his injury, the decision makers decided to stick with Parag. Tilak plays for Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League and he has been their consistent scorer.

“Parag is talented and has changed his attitude. He can bowl and is a good fielder. The selectors want to prepare him for the future,” the source told the newspaper.

“He has got a lot variations as a bowler. That makes him a good all-rounder in white-ball cricket,” the source added.

The first T20I of the three-match series between India and Sri Lanka will be played on July 27.