Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023 ended recently with the young Punjab team lifting the trophy. While many youngsters like Riyan Parag left a mark with their performances, a few veterans also had a good run. India will next face Australia in a T20I series. The seniors might be rested and hence, there is a scope for a few players to make a comeback to the Indian squad. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of two Indian veterans who could make a comeback to Team India after a strong SMAT 2023.
1) Krunal Pandya – 323 runs and 7 wickets
Krunal Pandya surprised all with his impressive outing in SMAT 2023. Interestingly, the Baroda skipper had a better campaign with the bat than with the ball. He also had a good tournament as a captain, leading his team to the finals.
With Ravindra Jadeja likely to be rested and Axar Patel having injury issues, Krunal could certainly be discussed in the selection meeting. At No.7, he offers balance to the side. He can also be promoted up the order if some early wickets fall. Hence, Krunal is also on this list.
2) Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 16 wickets
Bhuvi is one of the veterans who could make a comeback to Team India after a strong SMAT 2023. The last few months have been good for the veteran Indian pacer. While he warmed up with a strong show in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League, he followed it up with an impressive outing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
The right-arm pacer also gave away runs at an economy of less than 6. For a player who also bowls at the death, this was brilliant. India might need experience in the upcoming T20 tournaments and here is where a player like Bhuvi might find himself again at the centre of the pace attack.
