As anticipation mounts for the Indian cricket team’s selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, attention is drawn to the ongoing debate surrounding key positions, particularly the wicket-keeper’s slot. Amidst speculations and deliberations, a report on Cricbuzz has brought forward significant insights into the potential squad formation.
Rishabh Pant, whose resurgence in the IPL 2024 has captured attention following his recovery from a harrowing car accident, finds himself amid the contention. Despite a modest run tally of 153 in five matches, Pant’s reputation as game-changer positions him as a compelling choice, potentially pitting him against contenders like Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, and Jitesh Sharma for the coveted spot.
In parallel, discussions surrounding Virat Kohli’s strike rate have sparked a discourse among experts and fans, notwithstanding his commendable IPL 2024 performance, boasting over 300 runs. However, a recent report dispels doubts over Kohli’s place in the T20 World Cup squad, accentuating his invaluable contribution beyond mere statistical benchmarks.
Notably, cricketing luminary Brian Lara has highlighted Kohli’s indispensability, citing his multifaceted value to the team. Despite recent scrutiny surrounding Kohli’s century, marked by a deliberate approach, experts like Lara underscore the broader significance of his inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup roster.
“The strike-rate depends on position, and for an opener strike-rate of 130-140 is pretty alright. But if you are coming in the middle-order then you may be required to hit at 150 or 160. As you have seen in this IPL, batsmen are hitting at 200 in the latter part of an innings,” stated Lara.
“But an opener like Kohli always has the chance of starting at 130, bat through the overs and finish at 160 or even higher, which is alright. “But if you ask me, India’s top three in the World Cup should be Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill irrespective of all these. And for RCB, it should not be about one person, as it has to be a team effort,” said Lara.
The Trinidadian suggested that while the prospect of pairing Kohli and Rohit at the top of the innings for the T20 World Cup is enticing, he strongly recommended India to consider partnering a younger talent with the seasoned player in the opening position.
“I think Rohit and Virat going as openers to the West Indies (for WC) will serve India very well. Though, I think that you should have some youthful punch in the opening. One of the younger players, showing their mettle, and having one of those experienced players shepherd the innings in the middle-order.
“Having that whole experience up front, it could have a negative effect if they get dismissed early, so I will use one at top, but use the other at No. 3,” said the left-hander.
