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Former India cricketer and 1983 ODI World Cup winner Kris Srikkanth has unveiled his 15-member India squad for the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2024 slated to be held in the West Indies and the United States of America (USA).
Kris Srikkanth’s vision: Crafting India’s T20 World Cup squad
As anticipation builds up with the Board of Cricket for Control in India (BCCI) squad announcement drawing near, former India players are stepping forward to propose their envisioned squad for the prestigious event. With India aiming to secure their 2nd T20 World Cup title, Rohit Sharma is poised to lead the Indian team. The selectors and team management face the task of striking the perfect balance in the squad.
Bold decisions: Axing of crucial players
Now Speaking to Star Sports, Srikkanth’s discerning eye has led him to make some bold decisions, notably axing some Indian Premier League (IPL) stars including the likes of Gujarat Titans'(GT) skipper Shubman Gill, the fierce pacer Mohammed Siraj from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and the explosive young talent Yashasvi Jaiswal. Instead, he opts to anchor the squad with the seasoned prowess of Rohit and the indomitable Virat Kohli. Despite Suryakumar Yadav‘s recent dip in form, the former maestro displays unwavering faith in the middle-order stalwart’s ability to deliver when it matters most.
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Wicketkeeping conundrum
The wicketkeeping conundrum presents a perplexing dilemma, with the versatile KL Rahul securing the first-choice slot, while the likes of Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson vie for the backup position. Adding depth to the squad, Srikkanth includes the dynamic Shivam Dube and the promising Rinku Singh, both capable of making impactful contributions in crunch situations.
Balancing act: Spinners, All-rounders and Pace battery in focus
Turning to the spinning department, Srikkanth’s selection mirrors a blend of experience and talent, with Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav entrusted with the responsibility of bamboozling opposition batters alongside the ever-reliable Ravindra Jadeja. Hardik Pandya‘s unparalleled all-round prowess earns him a spot in the squad, further fortifying India’s arsenal.
In the pace battery, Srikkanth opted for a combination of raw pace and skill, with Avesh Khan, the emerging Arshdeep Singh, and the yorker maestro T Natarajan providing the necessary firepower. Spearheading the pace attack is none other than Mumbai Indians’ (MI) ace, Jasprit Bumrah, whose ability to deliver under pressure makes him an indispensable asset.
India’s quest for T20 World Cup glory assumes greater significance following their heart-wrenching semifinal exit in the previous edition. Drawn in Group A alongside perennial rivals Pakistan as well as Ireland, USA and Canada, India will be determined to leave an indelible mark on cricket’s grandest stage.
Also READ: Ambati Rayudu picks his India squad for the T20 World Cup 2024; Shivam Dube, Riyan Parag gets the nod