India vs South Africa: Shikhar Dhawan set to lead the side in the ODI series

Shikhar Dhawan (Image Source: Twitter)

Shikhar Dhawan, one of the most trusted openers in the ODI format, led India to a 3-0 win in the ODI series against West Indies. With that, he became the first captain to whitewash West Indies in their backyard. After that, he was all set to lead India in the Zimbabwe series until KL Rahul powered his way back into the squad at the last minute and led the side.

As per reports, Dhawan is now all set to wear the captaincy hat for the ODI series against South Africa. It is understood that the 20-20 World Cup players will be rested in the ODIs and VVS Laxman will coach the team in Rahul Dravid's absence.

ANI has reported that the veteran will be back to lead India in the ODI series against South Africa.

For the unversed, India will cross swords with the Proteas in 3 T20Is followed by 3 ODIs. The T20Is will begin on September 28th at Thiruvananthapuram. The second T20I will be played on October 2nd while the final will be played on October 4th. Guwahati and Indore will host the second and third T20I of the series respectively.

20-20 World Cup bound players to miss out on the ODI series

The ODI series will begin on 6th October in Lucknow. Ranchi and Delhi will host the second and third ODI on October 9 and 11 respectively. The young pacer Umran Malik might make a comeback to the national squad for the ODI series. Rahul Tripathi might reportedly make his debut in the series as well.

Shikhar Dhawan proved his worth as a captain against the Caribbean. He will look to emulate the same tactics in the home series against the Proteas as well. Shikhar Dhawan has been brilliant with the bat this year and has amassed 363 runs in the format in nine matches. Albeit his strike rate is considered to be a cause of concern, his captaincy might give him an edge.

The Rohit-led Indian team might leave for the 20-20 World Cup 2022 at around October 9 or 10.