‘We Will Bring Home the Trophy This Year’: Jay Shah Optimistically Reflects on India’s Playing XI For T20 WC

May 17, 2024 0 988

Jay Shah discussed the T20 World Cup squad selection process, emphasizing the importance of overseas experience alongside IPL performance.

With the T20 World Cup on the horizon, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is finalising its selection process. BCCI secretary Jay Shah offered insights into the team-picking strategy.

While the ongoing IPL serves as a valuable scouting ground, Shah emphasised that the selection will not solely rely on IPL performance. “The selectors can’t choose based on IPL performance alone, as overseas experience is also necessary,” he said in an exclusive interview with the Times of India, highlighting the importance of players who have excelled in international conditions.

Expressing optimism, Shah said, “We did well at the last ICC Men’s World Cup 2023, but the final victory eluded us. I am optimistic that we will bring home the T20 World Cup trophy this year.” Shah further identified India, Australia, New Zealand, and the host nation, the West Indies, as strong contenders due to their experience in T20 cricket.

Addressing the division of responsibilities with BCCI president Roger Binny, Shah clarified, “Roger Binny is the cricketing brain. He is involved in every cricket decision, while I look after the administration and finance parts. But finally, we do everything together. We have a very transparent and consultative process.”

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Regarding concerns about the IPL’s “impact player” rule, Shah assured that the BCCI is open to modifications. “It’s a test case. We are consulting players, franchisees, and all concerned. I feel the matches are getting more interesting; more Indian players are getting a chance to play. If our consultations reveal dissatisfaction, we will change it,” Shah explained.

Meanwhile, India is gearing up for the T20 World Cup. India will have their first outing against Ireland on June 5th, followed by the marquee clash against Pakistan on June 9th.