New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Saturday announced Team India for the upcoming white-ball series against Australia. However two young batsmen — Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Verma — were not included in the squad despite their impressive performances in the 2025 Asia Cup. Why were Abhishek and Tilak Verma left out? Chief selector Ajit Agarkar stated in a press conference that Tilak Verma was very close to selection but the short three-match series didnt require additional players. He said We have selected a 15-man squad. A three-match series doesnt require many changes. Agarkar also stated that Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill will open the innings while Yashasvi Jaiswal is also a promising option. Jadeja out of the squad but remains in the plans Spin all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has not been included in the squad for the Australia tour. Agarkar clarified that its not possible to have two left-arm spinners on Australian pitches but Jadeja is still in the selectors plans. He said Jadeja is a great player and adds balance to the team as an all-rounder. He is definitely part of the future plans. Update on Hardik Pandyas injury and rehabilitation Agarkar stated that Hardik Pandya who suffered a thigh injury before the Asia Cup final will be out of the Australia tour. He will soon begin rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy. Agarkar said Hardik will be at the NCA in a week. We will have a better idea of the timeline once his rehabilitation begins. Bumrah and Sirajs workloads are being monitored Agarkar stated that the workloads of both fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj are being monitored. He said We will manage their overs and fitness to reduce the risk of injury. They will also be given rest as per the teams needs. Nitish Reddy and Dhruv Jurel get a chance Nitish Reddy has been included in the ODI squad so that the selectors can evaluate his all-round performance in white-ball cricket. In addition wicketkeeper-batsman Dhruv Jurel has also received a chance in the ODI squad for the first time. Agarkar said that Jurel is being prepared for the lower order as the upper-order slots are already occupied. Story Highlights Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma were not included in the ODI squad. Jadeja is out of the Australia tour but will remain in the selectors plans. Hardik Pandya is out of the team due to injury and will begin rehab soon. The board will closely monitor the workload of Bumrah and Siraj. Nitish Reddy and Dhruv Jurel get new opportunities in the ODI team.