Hardik Pandya, who was initially included in the squad subject to fitness clearance, was ruled out after experiencing persistent pain while bowling. Hardik has been out of competitive action since suffering an injury during IPL 2026 and has not featured in One-Day Internationals since the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final. In his place, selectors named 23-year-old all-rounder Suryansh Shedge, who has represented India in three T20Is and holds a solid List 'A' record, including a standout 72 off 66 balls against Sri Lanka ‘A’ in June. Meanwhile, spin-bowling all-rounder Anukul Roy has been brought into the squad to replace Naman Dhir, who was called up to the senior India T20I squad for the upcoming series against the West Indies. Led by captain Ruturaj Gaikwad, India ‘A’ will play Australia ‘A’ in three 50-over matches scheduled for October 6, 9, and 11.