Bhuvneshwar Kumar replaces Siddarth Kaul for last 3 AUS ODIs

Pace bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has replaced Siddarth Kaul for the remaining three ODIs against Australia. This move is initiated by the team management to manage the workload of the pace bowler keeping in mind the ODI World Cup which will take place this year.

Bhuvi’s return strengthens India’s bowling unit

The right-arm pacer has established himself as India’s premier pace bowler along with Jasprit Bumrah in the recent times. Bhuvi’s ability to swing the new ball and take wickets in the Powerplay along with his accurate and skilled death overs bowling made him an essential part of India’s white ball team.

However the pacer suffered a few injuries in the last year and hence the team management is keeping an eye on his workload to ensure he is fully fit for the upcoming World Cup.

The 29 year old has featured in 103 ODIs and has claimed 114 wickets at an average of 35.91. His economy rate of 4.98 is impressive as well and he has a strike rate of 43.2.

Bhuvneshwar played in the ODI and T20I series against Australia and New Zealand so he was given a rest for the first two ODIs against Australia.

Siddarth Kaul’s unimpressive performance

Siddarth Kaul was offered a place in the national team courtesy of strong performance in domestic season. However he failed to make an impact in the T20I game at Bangalore.

He leaked 45 runs in 3.4 overs and wasn’t a part of India’s playing XI in the first two ODIs against Australia.

Also read: IND vs AUS 3rd ODI: Top 3 fantasy cricket picks for India vs Australia Dream11 Team

India’s squad for the remaining three ODIs

Team India has won the first two ODIs against Australia and hence need just one more win to pocket the series. The third ODI of the series will be played on 8th March at Ranchi.

India’s squad: Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Virat Kohli(c), Ambati Rayudu, Lokesh Rahul, Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni, Kedar Jadhav, Vijay Shankar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravindra Jadeja