As India heads into the ninth T20 World Cup 2024 as the top-ranked team and favorites, the squad selection based on IPL 2024 performances has sparked confusion and debate among cricket enthusiasts and experts.
Despite stellar performances, key players like Ruturaj Gaikwad, Riyan Parag, Harshal Patel, and Varun Chakravarthy have been left out. Instead, Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill find themselves in the reserves, and Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah, top performers, lead the squad.
Concerns are mounting over the form of captain Rohit Sharma and vice-captain Hardik Pandya, both of whom struggled in the IPL. Rishabh Pant’s inclusion, following his recovery from a severe injury, is seen as both a risk and a potential game-changer.
The bowling lineup, featuring three left-arm spinners, appears to lack variety, raising questions about its effectiveness. The squad’s composition has left many questioning the conventional logic behind the selection process.
As the tournament unfolds in the US and West Indies, all eyes will be on whether India can break its decade-long ICC title drought and deliver on the high expectations set by its cricketing prowess.