India confirmed its ODI squad for the West Indies visit on September 16, 2026. The decision caused immediate discussion after Rishabh Pant was left out despite being available for the series. Dhruv Jurel was selected as the backup wicketkeeper, indicating a substantial shift in the team’s attitude to the position.
Rishabh Pant has been the backup wicketkeeper till being dropped ahead of the home ODI series against Afghanistan.
His last ODI appearance was on August 7, 2024, against Sri Lanka. The backup wicketkeeper position came as a result of Ishan Kishan’s involvement in the Asian Games 2026, which prevented him from joining the West Indies tour.
Jurel’s Promotion to ODI Cricket
Chopra’s opinion is consistent with the club management’s overall selection strategy. Jurel was recalled to the ODI squad after last appearing during the previous year’s tour of Australia. His recent Test performance, which included his first overseas century of 115 not out in the second Test against Sri Lanka, has bolstered his case for white-ball participation.
Jurel’s selection to the ODI team signifies a huge step forward in his international career. The wicketkeeper-batsman had been a member of the Test team but was now being given a chance in the shorter format. Chopra acknowledged the change in the selection committee’s perspective of Jurel’s role in India’s cricket strategy.
Nabi’s first white-ball call-up.
Naman Dhir and Auqib Nabi received their first white-ball call-ups. Nabi had gained a Test call-up during the tour of Sri Lanka but had not made his debut in that format. His participation in the ODI squad prompted questions regarding the team’s fast bowling plan and the exact role he would play in the series.
