India vs South Africa: In-form Ishant Sharma may get ODI nod

After being overlooked for the T20 series and first three ODIs against South Africa, Ishant Sharma could be included in the Indian squad for the remaining two matches.

India vs South Africa: In-form Ishant Sharma may get ODI nod

New Delhi: After being overlooked for the T20 series and first three ODIs against South Africa, Ishant Sharma could be included in the Indian squad for the remaining two matches.

According to a report in the Times of India, the lanky pacer's strong show in the Ranji trophy and the poor display of current Team India bowlers could force the selectors' hand in picking Ishant.

"There is a strong chance that Ishant could be picked for the last two Onedayers. It's pleasing to know that he is bowling consistently at the top of his game. The team management is pleased to know about his form. They could do with his experience and accuracy," said a source told TOI.

Vikram Rathore, a member of the selection committee, was at the Ferozeshah Kotla where Ishant was in top form against Haryana.

"He had said he would be available for the next Ranji game if he was not called for national duty . But how things are shaping up, it now seems he is likely to be in that squad," a source close to the Delhi team was quoted as saying in the report.

"Ishant has been consistent with his pace, line and length. His rhythm is there and he is getting wickets. But death bowling is very important. He has struggled in the limited-overs format.

At this point, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mohit Sharma and Umesh Yadav provide a good mix.If the captain is more keen on getting wickets up front rather than worrying about the death bowling, then Ishant can be a good option," said Paras Mhambrey, coach of the Vidarbha team, on Friday.

The selectors meet on Sunday to pick the team. 

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