'Tri-series squad can have 16 or 17 players'

The Malaysia-bound team can have more than 15 members if request is made by management.

The Indian squad for the forthcoming triangular series in Malaysia may consist of more than 15 members if the team management makes a request to this effect to the Cricket Board.

"It will be at least a 15-member team, but the number can increase to 16 or 17 if a request is made by the team management with a view to give rest to some players ahead of the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy (October 7-November 5)", BCCI secretary Niranjan Shah said on Friday.

"A decision on the size of the squad will be taken when the selectors meet here on September 3," Shah said.

The Indian selectors will also pick the 14-member Champions Trophy team on Sunday as September 7 is the deadline for all participating outfits to submit their final team to the International Cricket Council.

Asked about the status of Anil Kumble's availability for the ten-team Mini World Cup in India, Shah said the ace leggie should be fit by the time the tournament comes around, according to the national squad's physio John Gloster.

Kumble had to cut short his stint with English county team Surrey after developing tendonitis in his bowling shoulder and has been advised rest.

The veteran Bangalore star has not been part of India's one-day squad for quite a while now but is widely expected to get the selectors' nod for the all-important Champions Trophy to be held in four Indian centres - Mumbai, Mohali, Jaipur and Ahmedabad.

Kumble has been included in India's preliminary 30-strong Champions Trophy squad.