Suryakumar Yadav Chooses “Biggest Game of His Life” Over Australia T20I, Opts Out

In a surprising turn of events, the Indian cricket team’s playing XI for the third T20I against Australia witnessed a major change as Avesh Khan replaced Mukesh Kumar. Mukesh had previously played in the first two T20Is against Australia. The Indian captain for the T20I series, Suryakumar Yadav, provided an amusing explanation for Mukesh Kumar’s absence at the toss of the third T20I. He said, “Avesh replaces Mukesh, who is playing his biggest game, he’s getting married and we wish him all the best.”

Yadav further expressed his satisfaction with batting first, stating that he was not surprised by the early appearance of dew on the pitch. He emphasized the team’s intention to stick to their game plans and play with freedom.

The reason behind Mukesh Kumar’s absence was revealed to be his request to be released from the squad for the third T20I in Guwahati. Deepak Chahar has been included in the squad for the remaining matches. Mukesh has been granted leave to join the wedding festivities for his marriage and will rejoin the squad before the 4th T20I in Raipur.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed the news of Mukesh Kumar’s request and leave, adding that Deepak Chahar has been added to the squad as his replacement.

In other news, Australia’s captain, Matthew Wade, won the toss and elected to field in the third T20I at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. The Indian team, leading the series 2-0, aims to secure the series victory. The young Indian players have showcased their potential against the experienced Australian side in two high-scoring games.

Australia has made significant changes for the final three matches, with players like Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Josh Inglis, and Sean Abbott returning to Australia. On the other hand, players like Ben McDermott, Josh Philippe, Ben Dwarshuis, and Chris Green will be joining the Australian squad in India.

The playing XI for Australia includes Travis Head, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, Glenn Maxwell, Marcus Stoinis, Tim David, Matthew Wade (w/c), Nathan Ellis, Jason Behrendorff, Tanveer Sangha, and Kane Richardson. The Indian playing XI comprises Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (w), Suryakumar Yadav (c), Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, and Prasidh Krishna.

The news was reported with inputs from ANI.