With the T20 World Cup approaching, speculations about India’s squad have intensified. Former India batsman Mohammad Kaif has shared his predictions for the 15-member team that will represent India in the tournament.
Kaif’s squad includes several established players, such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, and Jasprit Bumrah. However, he also made some surprising choices, including Rishabh Pant as the wicketkeeper and Yuzvendra Chahal as the fourth specialist spinner.
Kaif explained his decision to include Pant as the wicketkeeper, saying, “He is a match-winner and can change the game with his batting.” He also preferred Chahal over Ravichandran Ashwin, stating, “Chahal is a very good bowler in those conditions where the ball will turn.”
Kaif’s squad also includes all-rounders Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja, as well as fast bowler Arshdeep Singh. He believes that the team needs batting depth and all-rounders who can contribute with both bat and ball.
For the remaining spots in the squad, Kaif selected Shivam Dube, Riyan Parag, and Mohammed Siraj. He praised Dube’s form and spin-hitting ability, while Parag’s exceptional performances earned him a place in Kaif’s squad. Siraj, despite his recent lack of form, was included due to his experience and overall record.
Kaif’s T20 World Cup squad for India:
1. Yashasvi Jaiswal
2. Rohit Sharma
3. Virat Kohli
4. Suryakumar Yadav
5. Hardik Pandya
6. Rishabh Pant (wk)
7. Axar Patel
8. Ravindra Jadeja
9. Kuldeep Yadav
10. Jasprit Bumrah
11. Arshdeep Singh
12. Yuzvendra Chahal
13. Shivam Dube
14. Riyan Parag
15. Mohammed Siraj
