Wicketkeeper J Suresh Kumar and big-hitting middle-order batter G Ajitesh, who impressed for Lyca Kovai Kings and Nellai Royal Kings respectively in the Tamil Nadu Premier League Season 6, have received maiden call-ups.

“We have a balanced squad, which is strong. We expect the team to win the title again. We have brought in a couple of youngsters who did well in T20s in the last 12 months,” selection panel chairman S Vasudevan told DT Next.

Off-spinning all-rounder Washington Sundar and left-arm Thangarasu Natarajan have been included in the squad while SMAT 2021 title-winning captain Vijay Shankar was not considered. In fact, Washington, who had injured his shoulder during the English County stint, has been named deputy to Aparajith.

Both Natarajan and Vijay Shankar have been out of action with injuries since the end of the Indian Premier League. “We have been told that Washington and Natarajan will be fit for the SMAT. That is why we picked them. Vijay Shankar has not played even a single match this season. There is no update on his fitness,” said Vasudevan.