Suryansh Shedge named in Mumbai's squad after ODI call-up buzz for NZ tour

Suryansh Shedge is in contention for a maiden ODI call-up for India's tour of New Zealand after impressing with bat and ball against Australia A. The 23-year-old all-rounder was on Thursday named in Mumbai's 16-member squad for their Ranji Trophy Elite Group D clash against Himachal Pradesh, scheduled from October 18 to 21.

Shedge picked up four wickets for 40 runs in the opening match of the unofficial ODI series against Australia A before scoring 66 off 60 balls, including seven fours and two sixes, in the final game to help India A secure a consolation victory.

According to a PTI report, a BCCI source indicated that Shedge has a strong chance of making the ODI squad, with India's packed schedule potentially influencing the selection committee's decision.

"Shedge has a very high chance of making it to the ODI squad simply because Nitish Kumar Reddy will have an important role to play in the Test series as the fourth seamer and a floater in the lower order. Hence, Reddy won't play all the ODIs as he has to prepare for the red-ball games," the source told PTI.

India are scheduled to play five T20Is and five ODIs against New Zealand before the two teams begin their Test assignment. With a tight turnaround between the limited-overs leg and the red-ball series, the selectors could consider a larger ODI squad to manage the workload of players involved in both formats.

Shedge's ability to contribute with both bat and ball could work in his favour as India assess their all-round options. His bowling has reportedly improved considerably, adding another dimension to his game as he looks to make the step up to international cricket.

SHEDGE IN MUMBAI'S RANJI SQUAD

Mumbai will face Himachal Pradesh in Bilaspur after beginning their Ranji Trophy campaign with a commanding victory over Chandigarh at the Wankhede Stadium. Mumbai won that match by an innings and 155 runs.

Angkrish Raghuvanshi has also been included in the 16-member squad. Mumbai will need to make changes to their top order, with vice-captain Ayush Mhatre sidelined by a right hamstring injury and India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal joining the India A squad for the three-match unofficial Test series in New Zealand.

Raghuvanshi and Divyaansh Saxena are likely to open the innings in their absence, although Mumbai's final combination will be determined closer to the match.

Former captain Shardul Thakur will also miss the fixture as he continues his recovery after suffering a blow to his hand during pre-season training.

A CHANCE TO PUSH FOR INDIA SELECTION

Shedge has already made three T20I appearances for India during the tour of England. He returned to competitive cricket recently after recovering from a hamstring injury and has since strengthened his case with his performances against Australia A.

India's search for all-round options has also gained importance with Hardik Pandya's continued absence from competitive cricket due to injuries. Nitish Kumar Reddy remains another option, but his potential involvement in the Test series could limit his availability for the ODIs.

The ODI squad announcement has been delayed, and the selectors may consider an expanded group to account for the demanding schedule. Shedge's recent performances have brought him into contention, although his selection is yet to be confirmed.

For now, the Mumbai all-rounder will look to build on his recent form in the Ranji Trophy. A strong performance against Himachal Pradesh could further strengthen his credentials as he waits to see whether he earns a place in India's plans for the New Zealand tour.

Mumbai squad for the match against Himachal Pradesh: Siddesh Lad (c), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Suryansh Shedge, Divyaansh Saxena, Sarfaraz Khan, Musheer Khan, Suved Parkar, Akash Anand (wk), Hardik Tamore (wk), Shams Mulani, Tanush Kotian, Atharva Ankolekar, Tushar Deshpande, Mohit Awasthi, Sylvester Dsouza, Onkar Tarmale.

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