Gambhir's strategy reportedly involves sacrificing Iyer for 2nd ODI
What's the story
Shreyas Iyer, who scored a brilliant half-century in the first ODI against England, faces the possibility of being dropped for the second match.
Notably, he was included in the playing XI as Virat Kohli missed the series opener due to a knee injury.
With Kohli now fit for the second game, head coach Gautam Gambhir and skipper Rohit Sharma might reportedly opt to leave Iyer out.
Here's more.
Strategy shift
Gambhir and Sharma may favor Jaiswal over Iyer
Despite Iyer's impressive 36-ball 59 in India's four-wicket victory in the first match, he may be benched for the Cuttack game.
Meanwhile, a report by PTI suggests that Gambhir and Sharma are considering Yashasvi Jaiswal's dynamic potential as an opener.
Interestingly, Iyer was absent from the optional practice session, along with key first-choice players like Shubman Gill, Mohammed Shami, Hardik Pandya, and Harshit Rana.
Line-up changes
Team management's preference for left-right opening combination
The team management, under Gambhir, appears to prefer a left-right opening combination.
This scenario could keep debutant Jaiswal at the top alongside skipper Sharma, pushing Kohli to the No. 4 position.
Meanwhile, Iyer's potential exclusion raises questions about Kohli's batting position in the lineup.
With Gill shining at the No. 3 role last match, Kohli could be handed the No. 4 spot if Iyer is really omitted from the team for today's game against England in Cuttack.
Team stability
Bowling unit remains stable despite potential changes
Following the first ODI victory, vice-captain Gill confirmed Kohli's availability for the second match, assuring that his injury is not a significant concern.
But Sharma is known for keeping the squad stable, not making unnecessary changes, and sticking to a winning combination.
The bowling unit looks well-balanced, making any adjustments unlikely.
Additionally, Varun Chakaravarthy's ODI debut in Cuttack seems challenging.