Jasprit Bumrah to Lead Second-String Indian Side Against Ireland in T20I Series

Star Pacer Returns to International Cricket After 11 Months on the Sidelines

In an announcement that has caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide, the Indian cricket team is set to witness a change in leadership for their upcoming tour to the United Kingdom (UK). The reins of the second-string Indian side will be handed over to the dynamic pacer Jasprit Bumrah, who will lead the squad against hosts Ireland in a three-match T20I series.

This series marks the eagerly awaited comeback of Jasprit Bumrah to international cricket after an extended absence of nearly 11 months due to a recurring back injury. The talented pacer last took the field during India's home T20I series against Australia in September of the previous year. Since then, Bumrah's absence was notably felt during the T20 World Cup and the Asia Cup.

Ruturaj Gaikwad, the Indian opener, has been entrusted with the role of vice-captain alongside a fully-recovered Bumrah. This collaboration is anticipated to provide a formidable combination at the helm. Additionally, pacer Prasidh Krishna will also be making his return after an extended period on the sidelines due to a lumbar stress fracture sustained during India's tour to Zimbabwe in August the previous year.

The second-string Indian squad showcases a mix of promising talents and experienced players. Jitesh Sharma, Rinku Singh, and Shivam Dube are among those enlisted to bolster the squad's strength. Notably, key players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Tilak Varma, Avesh Khan, and Sanju Samson have successfully retained their spots following the recent West Indies series.

With Bumrah at the helm, the Indian contingent aims to stage a strong comeback after their 3-2 loss against the West Indies in the Caribbean. The spin department for this series will be managed by Ravi Bishnoi, Shahbaz Ahmed, and Washington Sundar, stepping in for the absent Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravindra Jadeja, and Kuldeep Yadav.

The three-match T20I series against Ireland is scheduled to take place in Dublin. The series holds special significance as it represents India's final white-ball outing before the much-anticipated Asia Cup 2023. As the team departs for Ireland, the cricketing fraternity eagerly awaits the action that promises to captivate fans across the globe.

India vs Ireland T20I Series Schedule:

• All three matches will be live-streamed on JioCinema.
• Start Time: 7:30 IST for all games.