LONDON, Jan 10: Monty Panesar, a young British Sikh spinner inspired by Indian legend Bishen Singh Bedi, is widely expected to be named in England cricket squad later this week to tour India in March.

Madhusuden Singh Panesar, 23, almost made it to squad that recently toured Pakistan. He is tipped to be selected in view of spinner-friendly pitches in India, making him first Sikh to play for England.

David Graveney, chairman of selectors, is said to be looking closely at Panesar, who plays for Northamptonshire. He twice represented England’s Under-19s side.

He is hailed as one of next generation of spinners of English cricket, particularly when Ashley Giles is ageing at 33 and Udal is none too impressive at highest levels of cricket.—PPI