The upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 has sparked intense discussions among cricket enthusiasts and selectors alike. With the Indian Premier League (IPL) serving as a crucial platform for player evaluation, former New Zealand fast bowler Simon Doull has proposed a bold strategy for India’s batting lineup.
Doull believes that Virat Kohli should be promoted to the opening position alongside Rohit Sharma. This move, he argues, would allow Kohli to face more fast bowlers and provide a solid start for the team against formidable opponents.
“I think Virat should open…100 per cent,” Doull stated on Cricbuzz. “He hits the quick bowlers as good as anyone and he times the ball beautifully. Coming in and starting against spin is not his best option.”
Doull’s suggestion raises questions about the fate of Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been in impressive form in the IPL. However, Doull believes that Jaiswal may not find a place in the India playing XI for the World Cup.
Instead, Doull proposes a batting order that includes Sanju Samson at No. 3, followed by Suryakumar Yadav, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, and Ravindra Jadeja. Notably, this lineup omits Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill, two players who have been in contention for a spot in the team.
Doull emphasizes the importance of Rinku Singh, who has consistently performed well in the past year. “In my India starting XI, Rinku has to play,” he said. “He’s got to be a constant for the side.”
The Indian selectors will have a challenging task in finalizing the squad for the T20 World Cup 2024. Doull’s suggestions provide an intriguing perspective on the team’s potential batting lineup and will undoubtedly be considered by the decision-makers.
