India returns to action in 2023 as they host Sri Lanka for their first set of matches of the year. Coming off a successful 2-0 Test win against Bangladesh, the team now shifts its focus to a white-ball series consisting of three T20Is and three ODIs. The opening T20I is scheduled for January 3 in Mumbai. With Rohit Sharma still dealing with a thumb injury, the leadership duties will likely fall to Hardik Pandya.
India will make its on-field comeback, hosting Sri Lanka for its first challenge of 2023. After beating Bangladesh 2-0 in the Test series, a white-ball challenge of three T20Is and as many ODIs awaits the Men in Blue. The home series will begin when India faces Sri Lanka in the first T20I on January 3 in Mumbai. Hardik Pandya is expected to lead the Indian side as Rohit Sharma is reportedly yet to recover from the thumb injury.
The Indian team is prioritizing the ODI leg of the series, as it marks the start of their journey toward the 2023 home ODI World Cup. Since the T20Is are considered less critical, the team may opt to rest some senior players. Virat Kohli is a prime candidate for a break; given the upcoming high-stakes ODIs and a four-match Test series against Australia, it's vital for the top-order mainstay to stay fresh.
Kohli has been absent from T20Is since the last World Cup and might not return to the format until the start of IPL 2023. Similarly, Rishabh Pant is expected to be rested, as his recent batting form in the shortest format has been underwhelming. This opens the door for selectors to trial Sanju Samson or Ishan Kishan, especially since Pant's impact is more crucial in the 50-over games.
Mohammed Siraj might also be left out of the T20 squad to ensure he is peak-ready for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in February. Having proven himself as a top-tier pacer across various conditions, he is more likely to be utilized in the ODI lineup.