India vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI: Probable XI
After a series winning performance against the Sri Lankans in the Tests, the focus now shifts to ODIs when India led by Rohit Sharma take the field at the picturesque Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala on Sunday. A lot of new faces have been drafted into the squad, but the big question is who will make the playing XI?
Experience over youth?
India are set to play Sri Lanka in 3 ODI matches and 3 T20 internationals which is their last series of their home season. Keeping in mind, Sri Lanka have lost their last 12 ODIs, coach Ravi Shastri will be keen on testing India's bench strength. However, the pragmatic coach is likely to seal the series first before making big changes.
India's batting order
The opening duo will remain unchanged with captain Rohit Sharma and left handed dasher Shikhar Dhawan beginning the proceedings for India. Youngster Shreyas Iyer should get the nod in Kohli's absence with Manish Pandey and Dinesh Karthik set to follow. The middle order is relatively inexperienced, but in case of a slip up MS Dhoni should shoulder the innings for the men in blue.
India's bowling attack
Hardik Pandya is set to return after missing out the Test series and will be keen to impress before heading to South Africa. Spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal should make the playing XI after their recent performances for the men in blue. The pace attack will be led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar with the able hands of Jasprit Bumrah to aid him.
Rain to play spoilsport?
Having given out our playing XI, we could expect some changes as rain is likely to affect the outcome of the game. Here is the complete squad for the ODI series- Rohit Sharma (Captain), Shikhar Dhawan, Ajinkya Rahane, Shreyas Iyer, Manish Pandey, Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik, MS Dhoni (WK), Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Siddarth Kaul
