5 reasons why India might send a second string squad for West Indies tour

#4 Time to test bench strength

The likes of Axar Patel, Amit Mishra and Ambati Rayudu should step up to the task

As per the ICC ODI rankings, India’s top two bowlers are Axar Patel (at 11^th) and Amit Mishra (at 13^th). However, neither of them are playing in the Champions Trophy. Rightly so, the selectors opted for the experienced duo of Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. Factoring in the stiff competition for places in the team, the West Indies tour provides a platform to test the bench strength.

Extra Cover: Why Axar Patel should be groomed like Ravindra Jadeja

Batsmen such as Dinesh Karthik, Manish Pandey and Ambati Rayudu are seeking chances to showcase their skills. Considering the amount of cricket that India usually plays in every season, it becomes imperative for the team management to hone in on adequate back-ups in every department of the game.