Pathan Questions Indian Cricket Team Selection for T20 World Cup

Pathan Questions Indian Cricket Team Selection for T20 World Cup

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed concerns over the selection process for the upcoming T20 World Cup, questioning the consistency and rationale behind the decisions made by the selectors.

Pathan highlighted a shift in strategy, recalling that after India’s disappointing performance in the last T20 World Cup, the management had decided to prioritize young players over experienced campaigners. However, he expressed surprise at the apparent reversal of this approach in the current squad selection, where experience seems to have taken precedence over youth.

Pathan emphasized the importance of adhering to a consistent selection process, suggesting that while experience may be crucial, following a defined process could lead to better outcomes. He pointed out the absence of young talent like Rinku Singh from the squad, expressing disappointment over the exclusion of promising players and the potential impact on team dynamics.

In contrast, cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar offered a different perspective, attributing Rinku’s exclusion to his current form in the ongoing IPL. Gavaskar highlighted the dynamic nature of selection decisions and the importance of current performance.

Pathan’s concerns raise questions about the long-term vision and strategy of the Indian cricket team. The selectors’ decision to prioritize experience over youth may be a short-term solution, but it could have implications for the team’s future success. It remains to be seen whether the current squad will be able to deliver the desired results at the T20 World Cup, and whether the selection process will be reviewed and refined in the future.

Mumbai Indians' Woes Continue as Hardik Pandya Faces Criticism

Mumbai Indians’ Woes Continue as Hardik Pandya Faces Criticism

Mumbai Indians’ dismal performance in the ongoing IPL 2024 continued on Tuesday as they suffered their seventh defeat, their third consecutive loss, against KL Rahul’s Lucknow Super Giants. The five-time champions’ hopes of reaching the top four have been severely dented, as they now languish in ninth place with just 6 points.

The loss has drawn criticism from former India cricketer Irfan Pathan, who has pointed the finger at captain Hardik Pandya. Pathan took to social media to express his frustration, stating that Pandya’s “too many mistakes” have cost the team dearly.

“The team Mumbai Indians that qualified last year didn’t had Jasprit Bumrah but this season they had his services. Still they are in this situation. Purely because the team wasn’t managed well on the ground. Too many mistakes by their captain Hardik Pandya. It’s the truth,” Pathan posted.

Pandya, who took over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma this season, has faced intense scrutiny due to Mumbai Indians’ troubled campaign. He has been met with boos at several IPL 2024 venues, including Wankhede Stadium, the Mumbai Indians’ home ground.

His performance with both bat and ball has been underwhelming this season. On Tuesday against LSG, Pandya was dismissed for a golden duck. In 10 matches, he has managed to score just 197 runs at an average of 21.88 and has taken only 6 wickets.

Pandya’s struggles have been compounded by the team’s overall poor performance. Mumbai Indians have been plagued by injuries and inconsistent form, and they have failed to find a winning combination.

The loss to Lucknow Super Giants has left Mumbai Indians with an uphill task to qualify for the playoffs. They will need to win their remaining matches and hope that other results go their way. However, with their current form, it seems unlikely that they will be able to turn their season around.

Irfan Pathan Defends Virat Kohli's World Cup Selection Amid Strike Rate Debate

Irfan Pathan Defends Virat Kohli’s World Cup Selection Amid Strike Rate Debate

Virat Kohli’s performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has sparked a heated debate over his strike rate and perceived lack of aggression. Critics have questioned whether he deserves a place in India’s T20 World Cup team based on his recent performances.

However, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has vehemently defended Kohli, calling the question of his World Cup selection “disappointing.” Pathan emphasized the importance of experienced players like Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the team, especially on slow and two-paced pitches.

“This question that is being raised is very disappointing. How can the question be raised whether or not Virat Kohli will get a place in the World Cup?” Pathan said on Star Sports. “We are talking about the Indian selection here, not the strike rate of IPL.”

Pathan acknowledged Kohli’s struggles to accelerate in the middle overs but praised his ability to adapt to the situation and win games for his team. He pointed to Kohli’s recent innings against the Gujarat Titans, where he scored a 44-ball 70 and helped RCB secure a victory.

“He wants his team to win, and that’s why sometimes he’s going to play slow, but he always wants to play according to the situation,” Pathan said. “It’s good news for Virat Kohli, good news for RCB, but in long-term, great news for Team India.”

Pathan expressed his disappointment with the focus on Kohli’s strike rate, arguing that it overlooks his overall contributions to the team. “I’ve been actually talking about it from day one. Don’t question that because he’s a big-match player. He always wins you games,” Pathan said.

Irfan Pathan Defends Virat Kohli's Strike Rate, Calls Criticism 'Disappointing'

Irfan Pathan Defends Virat Kohli’s Strike Rate, Calls Criticism ‘Disappointing’

Virat Kohli’s strike rate has been a topic of debate throughout IPL 2024, despite the fact that he is the tournament’s leading run-scorer. While Kohli has consistently delivered for Royal Challengers Bangalore, his approach and run-scoring pace after the powerplay have drawn criticism from fans and experts alike.

Following another half-century in RCB’s victory over Gujarat Titans, Kohli launched a fiery defense of his strike rate. Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan expressed disappointment over the ongoing discussion, emphasizing Kohli’s status as a “big-match player” who consistently wins games.

“I don’t understand where all the talks of strike rate come in. It actually disappoints me,” Pathan said. “He’s a big-match player. He always wins you games. And today look what he did. Look, it was a slow start. He played down the ground really well. He played the slog sweep really well as well. And this shot sweep shot. He doesn’t play that much, but he played all around today, and that is why he’s able to get that success.”

Pathan also highlighted Kohli’s impressive form as a positive sign for India ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024. He urged critics to consider Kohli’s average in addition to his strike rate.

“It’s good news for Virat Kohli, good news for RCB, but in long term, great news for Team India because you know a lot of chatter has been there around for Virat Kohli’s strike rate and his form. You have to just make it strike-rate plus average. He’s got an orange cap on his hand, 500 runs, outstanding,” Pathan added.

Kohli’s performance in IPL 2024 has silenced some of his critics, but the debate over his strike rate is likely to continue. However, Pathan’s comments serve as a reminder of Kohli’s match-winning abilities and the importance of considering his overall contribution to the team.

IPL Performances Alone Should Not Guarantee World Cup Selection: Irfan Pathan

IPL Performances Alone Should Not Guarantee World Cup Selection: Irfan Pathan

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has emphasized the importance of considering a player’s past contributions to the Indian team when selecting the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Pathan believes that standout performances in the ongoing IPL 2024 season should not automatically guarantee a spot in the team.

Pathan draws on his own experience as an example. Despite being injured and dropped from the team, he was eventually recalled due to his past contributions. He argues that the selection committee should adopt a similar approach, acknowledging the value of experience and not solely relying on recent IPL performances.

Pathan highlights the challenges of international cricket, where players face top-quality bowlers like Mitchell Starc and Pathirana. He believes that experienced bowlers with a proven track record should be prioritized over uncapped bowlers who may perform well in the IPL’s smaller grounds and flatter pitches.

While acknowledging the potential of young players, Pathan cautions against overlooking the importance of experience, especially in the slow conditions of the West Indies and the unknown element of the USA pitches. He cites the 2007 T20 World Cup victory as an example, where India’s success was built on a core of experienced players.

Pathan concludes by emphasizing the need for vigilance in selecting the squad for the upcoming World Cup. He believes that the slowness of the game in the West Indies demands experienced players who can handle the pressure and adapt to the conditions.

Irfan Pathan Defends Virat Kohli's Inclusion in T20 World Cup Squad

Irfan Pathan Defends Virat Kohli’s Inclusion in T20 World Cup Squad

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has vehemently defended the inclusion of Virat Kohli in India’s T20 World Cup squad, dismissing concerns about his recent form.

Pathan emphasized Kohli’s exceptional international record, highlighting his average of around 50 and strike rate of 137 in T20 cricket. He argued that these numbers translate to a high-quality performance, with a strike rate approaching 190.

Pathan also pointed to Kohli’s match-winning abilities, recalling his pivotal role in India’s victory in the 2022 T20 World Cup. He stressed the importance of experience, especially in challenging conditions like those expected in the West Indies and the USA.

“At such a time when there will be World Cup in West Indies and America, you will need the experience,” Pathan said. “In my mind, such a question will never come that Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should not be part of the World Cup team.”

Pathan’s comments come amid ongoing debates about Kohli’s place in the T20 team following his struggles in the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, Pathan believes that Kohli’s international record and experience make him an indispensable asset for India.

Despite RCB’s recent victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL, the team remains at the bottom of the standings. However, Pathan’s defense of Kohli suggests that the former Indian captain remains a key figure in the team’s plans for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Experts Debate India's T20 World Cup Bowling Combination

Experts Debate India’s T20 World Cup Bowling Combination

India’s T20 World Cup Squad: Experts Weigh In on Bowler Selection

As the May 1 deadline for squad announcement looms, former cricketers and experts have shared their insights on the optimal bowling combination for India’s T20 World Cup campaign.

Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan emphasizes the need for five specialist bowlers, including two wrist-spinners. He suggests Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav as his preferred options, citing their impressive performances. However, he cautions against including Yuzvendra Chahal due to fielding concerns.

Pathan acknowledges Jasprit Bumrah as the only automatic choice among the bowlers. He recommends Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh as potential fast bowlers, but expresses reservations about Siraj’s consistency.

Former India batter K Srikkanth advocates for Avesh Khan as the third pacer, citing his death-over prowess and international experience. He believes Siraj’s erratic performances make him unsuitable for the World Cup.

Former Australia all-rounder Tom Moody defends Siraj, attributing his recent struggles to fatigue and the poor performance of his IPL team, Royal Challengers Bangalore. He believes Siraj has the potential to step up in the World Cup based on his past performances.

The experts agree on the importance of a balanced bowling attack, with a mix of pace and spin. They emphasize the need for wicket-taking options and the ability to control the game in different phases.

Irfan Pathan Unveils Ideal Team India Squad for T20 World Cup

Irfan Pathan Unveils Ideal Team India Squad for T20 World Cup

Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has unveiled his ideal Team India squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, slated to be announced by May 1. In a video shared by Star Sports, Pathan meticulously outlined his lineup, providing insightful justifications for his choices.

Batting Order:

Pathan’s batting order preferences begin with captain Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers. The middle order comprises Virat Kohli at No. 3, followed by Suryakumar Yadav at No. 4. For the crucial No. 5 and No. 6 slots, Pathan suggests Rinku Singh, Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), and Shivam Dube.

Lower Middle Order and Spinners:

The lower middle order, according to Pathan, should feature Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja. In the spin department, Kuldeep Yadav is a certainty, while Ravi Bishnoi is preferred over Yuzvendra Chahal due to his superior fielding abilities.

Pace Bowling Unit:

Pathan’s pace bowling unit is led by Jasprit Bumrah, followed by Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj.

Extra Batter Dilemma:

Regarding the inclusion of an extra batter, Pathan suggests a choice between Shubman Gill and Sanju Samson. The decision will depend on whether the team opts for an additional batter or an extra wicketkeeper.

Pathan’s Ideal Squad:

Rohit Sharma (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rinku Singh, Rishabh Pant (WK), Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, Shubman Gill/Sanju Samson.

Kohli's Batting Position Sparks Debate Ahead of T20 World Cup

Kohli’s Batting Position Sparks Debate Ahead of T20 World Cup

Virat Kohli’s batting position in the upcoming T20 World Cup has sparked a debate among cricket experts. Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes that Kohli opening the innings with skipper Rohit Sharma would create opportunities for power-hitting finishers like Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube in the Indian playing XI.

Pathan, who played a pivotal role in India’s 2007 T20 World Cup triumph, suggests that Yashasvi Jaiswal should partner Rohit Sharma as the openers due to their contrasting batting styles and Jaiswal’s impressive international strike rate of 160. However, he acknowledges that Kohli opening the batting would allow for a more balanced team composition.

“If Virat opens up the batting, it will allow the combination of 11 to be in a certain way, which you want,” Pathan explained. “If that happens, you might see Shivam Dubey playing, if he’s there in the squad. You might see guys like Rinku Singh in the playing 11 as well.”

Pathan also emphasizes the importance of Jaiswal’s underutilized leg-break bowling, which could provide the team with an additional bowling option. “Jaiswal has actually been bowling regularly in the nets,” he said. “So what you can do is you can actually play proper five bowlers and maybe have him as a sixth bowler, as an option to keep it.”

Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden also advocates for Kohli batting as much as possible in the powerplay. “I’ve got to have him in the powerplay,” Hayden said. “If I’m going to pick him, he has to play in the powerplay. He has to play the majority of those six overs as an opener.”

Hayden believes that Kohli’s batting position is crucial for India’s success in the World Cup. “It all comes down to are we interested in selecting a side that we believe is the right balance and is going to win this World Cup,” he said.

Pathan Urges Reassessment of Pandya's Role, Raises Concerns Ahead of T20 World Cup

Pathan Urges Reassessment of Pandya’s Role, Raises Concerns Ahead of T20 World Cup

Former Indian seamer Irfan Pathan has urged Indian cricket to reassess the importance placed on Hardik Pandya’s role as an all-rounder, emphasizing the need for impactful performances in ICC tournaments. Pathan’s remarks come amidst Pandya’s struggles in the ongoing IPL season, sparking debates over his inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad.

Pathan highlighted the necessity for Pandya to deliver substantial contributions at the international level, particularly in ICC events. He emphasized that Pandya’s potential alone is not sufficient and that he needs to make a tangible impact on the field.

Expressing concern over the disparity between IPL performances and international cricket, Pathan advised Pandya to commit to consistent participation throughout the year, rather than selective appearances. He stressed the importance of fostering a team-oriented approach, drawing parallels with Australia’s strategy of nurturing collective excellence over individual brilliance.

Beyond Pandya’s role, Pathan raised concerns about India’s finishers and the effectiveness of the pace bowling unit ahead of the T20 World Cup. He noted that while India’s top-order batting and middle-overs bowling are relatively settled, the team needs to address concerns in the finishing and fast bowling departments.

Pathan emphasized the need for improvement in key areas, underscoring the significance of addressing these challenges to bolster India’s prospects in the upcoming tournament. He highlighted the importance of finding a reliable finisher with a high strike rate and improving the performance of the pace bowlers, particularly in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah.

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