5 reasons why ODI series vs Sri Lanka is crucial for the Indian team

#4. Perfect match-practice for second string pacers

Shardul Thakur has impressed in domestic cricket

The rest to Umesh Yadav and Mohammad Shami means India's second string pacers will get a chance to prove their mettle in this ODI series.

Bhuvaneshwar Kumar, who started as a swing-only bowler, has worked on his accuracy and has emerged as a fine death overs bowler. Although he has been impressive in IPL for the last two years, he still hasn't been effectively tested in ODIs. In the absence of strike pacers, Bhuvaneshwar will certainly have a major role to play and his bowling skills will be tested in Sri Lanka.

Shardul Thakur's swift bowling action and control over variations earned him plaudits in domestic cricket. The ODI series against Sri Lanka is the perfect opportunity to check where stands in international cricket.

For the next couple of years, India is set to play mostly overseas matches and hence the playing XI will feature three genuine pacers. For the team management, this ODI tour is the buffer period to get their pace battery in shape before the tougher challenges arrive in the future.