The Indian cricket team has unveiled its 15-member squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in the West Indies and USA from June 2 to 29. Former Indian cricketer Madan Lal has identified Rishabh Pant as the potential game-changer for Rohit Sharma’s side.
Lal believes that Pant’s return to the team is crucial for India’s success in the tournament. “If India wants to win, he needs to perform well. It is as simple as that,” said Lal. “He is a class act. At the moment, he is one of the top batsmen in the world.”
Lal also praised the selection of Shivam Dube over Rinku Singh as an all-rounder. “Dube has done quite well recently,” said Lal. “He is the best hitter of the ball (at the moment). That’s why I think they have picked Dube ahead of Rinku Singh.”
However, Lal questioned the exclusion of KL Rahul from the squad. “KL is also very talented, and there is no doubt about that,” said Lal. “It (not selecting Rahul) is another mysterious case.”
Lal emphasized the importance of performing well in the initial overs of the match. “The game is won on the front when the top batsmen and bowlers play well,” said Lal. “For the bowlers, if you don’t get wickets early on and then allow opponents to score runs against you, then that haunts you all the game. The same goes with the batsmen. The first six and last three-four are very important overs.”
India’s schedule for the T20 World Cup 2024 includes matches against Ireland (June 5), Pakistan (June 9), the USA (June 12), and Canada (15), all to be played in New York and Florida.
