A BCCI source recently revealed that India’s T20 World Cup squad will prioritize experience over fresh faces from the IPL, with straightforward choices and no experimentation.
India’s selectors are prioritising experience over fresh faces from the IPL for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The final squad is expected to be named by the end of April, meeting the ICC’s deadline for a provisional 15-member roster.
Selectors led by Ajit Agarkar are aiming for straightforward choices, assuming full fitness within the team. “There would not be any experimentation or left-field selections. All those who have played for India and have done well consistently in T20 internationals and the IPL will be rewarded,” said a BCCI source, as quoted by the Times of India.
Openers Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal might face a selection battle. If both established players make the cut, only one of the finishers—Rinku Singh (KKR) or Shivam Dube (CSK)—will likely be included.
The second wicketkeeper’s slot is another tight race. Sanju Samson competes with Jitesh Sharma, KL Rahul, and Ishan Kishan. Rahul and Kishan primarily bat at the top, raising questions about their suitability in the middle order. Hardik Pandya’s bowling fitness remains a concern, but his selection seems certain. Similarly, Virat Kohli’s inclusion is a formality.
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Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravindra Jadeja, Rishabh Pant, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, and Kuldeep Yadav are also considered automatic selections if fit. Notably, Siraj is being rested by RCB for workload management.
The choice between Gill and Jaiswal is a close one. While Gill has scored more runs, the selectors might be hesitant to cast aside Jaiswal, a promising talent, based on a few low IPL scores. However, Gill’s strong performance could force a tough decision. The selectors may even accommodate both openers, dropping one of Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh.
The reserve spinner’s slot could be a tight battle between Axar Patel, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Ravi Bishnoi. Chahal boasts superior bowling skills, but his repeated exclusions from major squads raise doubts about his World Cup selection.
Promising youngsters like Riyan Parag, Mayank Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, and Harshit Rana might have to wait. However, they could make their India debuts in the upcoming white-ball series against Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, but that will be seen in the future.
Last Updated on April 17, 2024
