Former Indian all-rounder Sanjay Bangar has picked his Indian XI for the first T20I against South Africa. The former Indian batting coach picked Jitesh Sharma ahead of Sanju Samson in the final XI. 

Bangar highlighted that Arshdeep Singh, who is India’s highest wicket-taker in T20Is, is unlikely to get a place in the team if Jasprit Bumrah is available for selection. 

“Unfortunately, there is no place for him (Arshdeep), considering the combination with which the Indian team has been playing till now, and Suryakumar Yadav also said they won’t make too many changes. However, if Jasprit Bumrah isn’t available, Arshdeep will come immediately because he also bowls like that,” the former India all-rounder said.

Bangar said Jitesh Sharma is more suited for the finishing role than Sanju Samson.

“You have three bowlers like Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah, who are wicket-takers in any format, and then you have a good restrictive option in Axar Patel. I haven’t given a place to Sanju Samson in the team because the middle order is quite strong, and Jitesh Sharma can give you a good batting option at No. 7, as he has batted a lot at that position,” Bangar added

On the other hand, Bangar said Hardik Pandya’s return is a massive boost for India as he provides the balance with bat and ball.

“Really a massive boost, because the combination with which the team wants to go, more spin options and all-rounders, you will probably have to sacrifice a fast bowler there. Only one main fast bowler might play,” he responded.

Sanjay Bangar’s playing XI for 1st T20I against South Africa: Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Jitesh Sharma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakravarthy.