If the BCCI opts for multiple nominations in the men's category, veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan could be a top choice, particularly after missing out in 2018. Similarly, Bumrah was previously ineligible because he lacked the three years of top-tier international experience required by the selection criteria.
If BCCI decides to put forward multiple names in the men’s section, veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan could also be preferred as he missed out in 2018 despite the board sending his nomination. Bumrah lost out as he had completed only two years in international cricket while the standards of selection require the performance of a minimum of three years at the very best level.
According to a source, this is why Ravindra Jadeja—who is both more senior and has shown long-term consistency—was picked over Bumrah last year. However, Bumrah has since spent four exceptional years in the Indian jersey, racking up 68 Test wickets, 104 ODI wickets, and 59 T20I wickets.
Bumrah's qualifications are second to none. Not only did he climb to the No. 1 spot in the ICC ODI rankings, but he also holds the unique distinction of being the only Asian bowler to take five-wicket hauls across England, Australia, the West Indies, and South Africa.
Regarding Shikhar Dhawan, injuries kept him off the field for a significant part of the previous year. Since his 2018 nomination was unsuccessful—with the honor going to Smriti Mandhana—the BCCI is likely to nominate both he and Bumrah now.
As for the women's nominations, pacer Shikha Pandey and all-rounder Deepti Sharma are currently the frontrunners.