India vs Australia 2020: Srikar Bharat called in as cover for Rishabh Pant

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KS Bharat

According to reports, Srikar Bharat has been called in as cover for the injured Rishabh Pant for the remainder of the ODI series between India and Australia. The wicket-keeper, who averages over 37 in First-Class cricket, has been a prolific contributor for Andhra Pradesh in the domestic circuit.

In fact, he was even brought into the fold as a back-up for Wriddhiman Saha in the recently concluded Day-Night Test between India and Bangladesh at Eden Gardens.

However, his List A record leaves a lot to be desired, thereby casting the BCCI’s decision as even more perplexing. In 51 games, he averages a shade over 28 and boasts a middling strike-rate of 69.

Also see – World Test Championship points table

Having said that though, there weren’t many alternatives the selectors could’ve opted for, considering Sanju Samson is slated to represent India A in New Zealand and Saha hasn’t been looked upon as a limited-overs option.

Pant, who suffered a concussion during the 1st ODI at Mumbai, is currently undergoing an observation period at the National Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, wherein a further assessment would allow the Men In Blue to ascertain if he would be fit enough to take part in the 3rd ODI at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

In his absence, KL Rahul looks primed to fulfill wicket-keeping duties when India and Australia lock horns at Rajkot on the 17th of January, 2020.  

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