Shikhar Mohan in India A squad for last two four-dayers against New Zealand A

Shikhar Mohan in India A squad for last two four‑dayers against New Zealand A The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced on Tuesday that all‑rounder Shikhar Mohan has been called up to the India A side for the final two four‑day matches of the series against New Zealand A. Mohan, a 26‑year‑old left‑handed batsman who also bowls medium‑pace, replaces opening batsman KL Rahul, who will feature only in the opening fixture before rejoining the senior Indian side for the upcoming One‑Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand. The decision was confirmed by India A head coach, Gautam Gambhir, who said the move would give Mohan exposure to the longer format at a crucial stage of his development..

KL Rahul’s limited involvement in the series stems from the senior team’s scheduling constraints. After playing the first four‑day match, Rahul will travel to Wellington to join the Indian ODI squad, which is set to begin a five‑match series later this month. Rahul’s presence in the first game is intended to provide stability at the top of the order while allowing the younger cohort to adjust to New Zealand conditions..

The BCCI’s statement highlighted the need to balance player workload with the demands of an increasingly crowded international calendar. Shikhar Mohan’s inclusion marks his first senior assignment with India A. He has been a regular feature in the Under‑19 World Cup and the domestic Vijay Hazare and Ranji Trophy competitions, where his performances have drawn attention from national selectors..

In the 2023‑24 Ranji season, Mohan amassed 652 runs at an average of 48.67, including three centuries, and claimed 12 wickets with his seamers. His all‑round capabilities are expected to add depth to the India A side, which has struggled with middle‑order consistency in the first two matches of the series. The four‑day series against New Zealand A began in early March, with the first match ending in a hard‑earned draw..

New Zealand A, captained by seasoned pacer Tim Southee, posted a first‑innings total of 385, with a notable 94 from opening batsman Devon Conway. India A responded with 312, thanks to a resilient 78 from captain Ajinkya Rahane, but were forced to follow on after a 73‑run deficit. The match concluded without a result as rain intervened on the final day, leaving both teams eager for a decisive outcome in the remaining fixtures..

For Mohan, the upcoming fixtures present an opportunity to prove his mettle against a competitive New Zealand attack that includes the likes of Kyle Jamieson and Ish Sodhi. Both bowlers have been in prolific form in the test arena, and their ability to extract bounce and turn on the Wellington pitches will test Mohan’s technique under pressure. Coaches from both camps have praised the quality of the surfaces, noting that they offer a balanced contest between bat and ball, a factor that could influence selection decisions for the senior national team later in the year..

The BCCI’s selection committee, chaired by former captain Sourav Ganguly, emphasized that the India A squad is being used as a pipeline for future senior players. “We are looking at players who can adapt to varied conditions and who have the temperament to handle the rigors of test cricket,” Ganguly said in a press briefing. He added that Mohan’s recent domestic form, combined with his ability to contribute with both bat and ball, aligns with the board’s long‑term strategy of building a versatile core for upcoming international tours..

New Zealand Cricket, meanwhile, confirmed that its A team will retain the same squad for the remaining matches, aiming for continuity and cohesion. Coach Gary Stead expressed confidence that his side will capitalize on the experience gained from the first draw and push for a series win. He highlighted the importance of giving younger players exposure to overseas conditions, stating that the A series serves as a crucible for talent that will eventually feed into the Black Caps’ test lineup..

Analysts predict that the series could swing either way, with the final two matches poised to become a showcase of emerging talent from both nations. Former test selector Sunil Gavaskar noted that the depth of the Indian batting order, now bolstered by Mohan’s addition, could tip the balance in India A’s favour. Conversely, cricket writer Anand Venkatesh argued that New Zealand A’s bowling depth, especially with the return of fast bowler Will O’Rourke from injury, might prove decisive..

Both sides will need to manage player fatigue, as the schedule compresses three four‑day games into a ten‑day window. Ticket sales for the remaining fixtures have surged, reflecting growing public interest in A‑team cricket. The matches are being played at the Basin Reserve in Wellington, a venue known for its historic ambience and enthusiastic crowds..

Local businesses reported a boost in hospitality bookings, and the New Zealand tourism board has highlighted the series as part of its “Sporting Summer” campaign, aiming to attract both domestic and international spectators. In addition to the on‑field action, the series includes a series of community outreach events. Players from both squads are scheduled to visit local schools and cricket academies, offering coaching clinics and motivational talks..

Organisers hope that these engagements will inspire the next generation of cricketers and strengthen ties between the two cricketing nations. The BCCI and New Zealand Cricket have jointly funded these.