Rishabh Pant’s impressive return to form in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has put him in contention to become India’s vice-captain for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, ahead of all-rounder Hardik Pandya.
Pant, who has been out of action since a near-fatal car accident in December 2022, has shown remarkable resilience and skill in his comeback. In contrast, Pandya has struggled both as a batter and bowler in the ongoing IPL, raising questions about his leadership abilities.
According to a report by Cricbuzz, Pant’s current form gives him an edge over Pandya in the race to become Rohit Sharma’s deputy. The national selectors are expected to meet on May 1 to consider re-appointing Pant as vice-captain, a position he held before his injury hiatus.
Pant has previously captained India in the five-match T20I series against South Africa in June 2022. He is also expected to be India’s first-choice wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup in June.
Other positions in the Indian squad for the World Cup are also up for grabs. Sanju Samson and KL Rahul are vying for the second wicket-keeper spot, while Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh are in contention for all-rounder roles.
The top order is likely to consist of Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav. The middle order will feature Pant, Pandya, and Ravindra Jadeja.
Kuldeep Yadav is expected to be the specialist spinner, while Axar Patel may edge out Ravi Bishnoi for the other spinner’s position. Veteran spinner Yuzvendra Chahal, despite his impressive performance for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, may once again miss out on selection.
