India’s squad announcement for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against South Africa is facing major turbulence, with both newly appointed ODI captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer likely to be unavailable. According to a PTI report citing BCCI sources, Gill—who was recently named India’s ODI skipper—may miss the entire ODI leg due to fitness concerns.
Adding to the selection dilemma, Shreyas Iyer is recovering from an injury sustained during the third ODI against Australia and could remain out of action for at least two more months. His absence removes the most natural replacement option for captaincy, forcing the Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee to explore alternative leadership choices.
The selectors are operating under time pressure as India’s white-ball tour of South Africa begins on November 30, featuring three ODIs followed by a five-match T20I series. The squad announcement is expected soon, and with two key leaders injured, a fresh captaincy debate has emerged within the BCCI.
The situation has left the selection panel evaluating backup captaincy options—potentially including KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya (if fit), or other senior members—depending on availability and workload strategies.
With injuries piling up and the schedule tight, India may be forced to field an experimental squad for the ODI leg of the South Africa tour.
Originally published on 24×7-news.com.
