The Indian cricket team’s selection for the T20 World Cup 2024 is a complex task for the BCCI and team management. While most players are likely to be retained, several backup roles remain fiercely contested.
Captain Rohit Sharma faces two crucial decisions: whether to include a fourth specialist pacer alongside Hardik Pandya and whether to consider Shubman Gill. Hardik Pandya’s vice-captaincy is also under scrutiny, with Rishabh Pant emerging as a potential contender.
Yuzvendra Chahal, despite being the IPL’s leading wicket-taker, may be overlooked in favor of Kuldeep Yadav as the primary spinner. Axar Patel is expected to edge out Ravi Bishnoi for the second spinner’s spot.
The top order is likely to feature Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav. The middle order will comprise Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja. Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh could be included as an all-rounder, while Sanju Samson or KL Rahul will compete for the second wicketkeeper’s role.
Hardik Pandya’s recent performances for Mumbai Indians have raised concerns, with the all-rounder scoring only 197 runs and taking four wickets at a high economy rate.
A recent poll conducted by NDTV Sports revealed that fans believe Hardik Pandya should not be included in the Indian team for the T20 World Cup.
