Cricket

India's T20 World Cup Squad: Youth vs. ExperienceFormer Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has sparked a debate over the selection of India's T20 World Cup squad, suggesting that a younger team might have been more advantageous. Manjrekar advocates for injecting youthful talent like Yashaswi Jaiswal into the mix, rather than solely relying on experienced players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.Despite the absence of Sharma and Kohli from many T20 matches last year, selectors have chosen to reinstate them, presumably banking on their experience. Manjrekar notes that the default opening pair now appears to be Sharma and Kohli, whereas he would have preferred exploring alternatives, such as incorporating the promising Jaiswal."Ideally, I would not have gone that way; I would have stuck with a slightly more younger kind of, core set of players but the selectors have committed themselves to the icons, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli," Manjrekar said.Manjrekar doubts that Jaiswal would secure a spot in the Indian XI, expressing disappointment that the selectors have opted for a more conservative approach. He believes that a younger team would have brought more flair and unpredictability to the tournament."Unfortunately, Jaiswal will have to sit out. I would have gone completely with a new lot (and) then he would have had a lot more flair and it would be something different," he said.Manjrekar also rejected the idea that Mohammed Amir and Shaheen Shah Afridi would present a significant threat to the Indian batters in the upcoming clash between the two arch-rivals on June 9th. He believes that Amir has not played at the international level for too long and that Afridi is not the same bowler he was two years ago."Mohammed Amir played his last international T20 seven years back. We have no idea what his form is like today. Shaheen Afridi is not the same bowler that he was two years ago.""India have handled him really well, if you remember the Asia Cup, even in the 50-overs World Cup we had a one-sided match. I do not see Pakistan as a major threat to India, plus the names (of) Mohammed Amir and Shaheen Shah Afridi. I do not think this is a problem for India," he added.Meanwhile, Irfan Pathan labeled left-arm spinner Imad Wasim as a potential threat. He believes that Wasim's ability to bowl stumps to stumps with the new ball could pose a challenge to the Indian batters.Manjrekar expressed confidence in Hardik Pandya's ability to excel as a finisher, citing his performance in the last T20 World Cup. He believes that Pandya's ability to score quickly and under pressure makes him a valuable asset to the team."My vote will always go to Hardik Pandya. I know he had a pretty quiet IPL, but go back to the last T20 World Cup that India played, the last match, semis against England at Adelaide.""Hardik Pandya got 60 off 30 balls at a strike rate of 190 after India had got 62 in their first 10 overs."Pathan mentioned that both Pandya and Shivam Dube would fulfill distinct roles in the competition. He believes that Pandya will have a set role to finish the game, while Dube will play as a floater and provide support against the spinners.Manjrekar highlighted India's cautious approach in the first round of the tournament, drawing parallels to their early exit in the 2007 50-overs World Cup in the Caribbean. He believes that India will feel the pressure of the first round and that their performance in the knockout stages will be crucial."India will feel the pressure of the first round because (in) 2007 (in) the West Indies, funny things (had) happened. I see India up and running very quickly. (But) I'm just going to watch this Indian team in the matches that matter - semis and the finals," he said."For India, World Cups are not anymore about getting into the final round. It's about what you do in the final rounds," he added.Manjrekar also asserted that Kohli tends to face extra pressure in knockout games because of his stature, a situation not mirrored by Sharma. He believes that Kohli feels obliged to bat longer and take more responsibility, which can sometimes affect his performance."Virat does take it upon himself. You see that happening in all the big games to bat a little longer, perhaps feels obliged because of the kind of stature that he has in Indian cricket to bat longer rather than just come and bat freely," he said."But Rohit Sharma will do that, no matter his stature. We saw that in the ODI World Cup. But I'm worried about Virat really when it comes to semis and the finals," he added.

As the T20 World Cup draws near, the Indian squad has assembled in the US, sparking discussions about the optimal 15-member team. Former England captain Eoin Morgan has expressed his preference for Shubman Gill over Yashasvi Jaiswal in the squad.Morgan, speaking on a Sky Sports podcast, stated that he would have included Gill in the 15 instead of Jaiswal. He praised Gill's leadership qualities and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.Jaiswal, a talented batsman, has made a strong start to his international career, scoring over 1000 runs in Tests and 500 runs in T20Is. However, Morgan believes that Gill's experience and leadership potential make him a more valuable asset for the World Cup.Gill has also impressed in international cricket since his debut in 2019. He has scored centuries in all three formats and has a proven track record of performing under pressure.Morgan emphasized the importance of having multiple leaders in a World Cup squad, even if they are not playing. He believes that Gill's presence, even on the sidelines, can provide inspiration and positivity to the team.The BCCI selectors' decision to include Jaiswal as a traveling reserve has been met with mixed reactions. Some experts believe that Gill's experience and leadership qualities should have earned him a spot in the main squad.As the World Cup approaches, the debate over India's squad selection is likely to continue. Morgan's comments have added fuel to the discussion, highlighting the importance of leadership and experience in a tournament where every match is crucial.

Shubman Gill's blistering century against Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Friday has reignited the debate over his omission from India's T20 World Cup squad.Gill, who has been in scintillating form this IPL season, slammed his fourth ton in the league, powering Gujarat Titans to a comfortable 35-run win over the defending champions. His 55-ball 104 was a testament to his class and ability to dominate even the best bowling attacks.Former India coach Ravi Shastri, who was on commentary duty during the match, expressed his admiration for Gill and lamented his exclusion from the World Cup squad. "He (Gill) would be hurting. He should be hurting. He should look at it positively and try to get better," Shastri said.Shastri pointed out that Gill's talent is undeniable, but the depth of India's batting lineup is such that he has not been able to secure a place in the 15-man squad. "A player of his calibre would walk into any side, but such is the talent in India that he doesn't get a place," Shastri added.Despite missing out on a place in the World Cup squad, Gill will still be traveling with Team India as a reserve alongside Rinku Singh, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed. This indicates that the selectors still value his abilities and believe he has a future with the national team.Gill's omission from the World Cup squad has raised questions about the selection criteria and whether the selectors have made the right decision. Some experts believe that Gill's consistent performances in the IPL should have earned him a place in the squad, while others argue that the selectors have opted for a more experienced lineup.Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to include Gill in the World Cup squad is a matter of opinion. However, there is no doubt that he is a talented batsman with the potential to become one of the best in the world. His performances in the IPL this season have only reinforced that belief.

After India's T20 World Cup squad announcement, captain Rohit Sharma engaged in a conversation with Rinku Singh, who was omitted from the 15-man roster. The encounter occurred at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, prior to the Mumbai Indians vs Kolkata Knight Riders match.Despite his exclusion, Rinku appeared cheerful during his chat with Sharma, who arrived at the stadium after a press conference with BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar. Former SunRisers Hyderabad coach Tom Moody commended Sharma's leadership and communication skills, highlighting his honesty and upfront approach with Rinku."That's great leadership right there. Making sure you're upfront and honest. It's easier to speak to someone when they're included in the squad, it's always hard to speak to someone who has been left out. That's why Rohit Sharma is so highly-regarded around the playing group. He is a very good leader. He's got those soft skills, which is so important around communication," Moody said.Agarkar acknowledged the difficulty in selecting the squad, particularly regarding Rinku's omission. "It's probably the toughest thing that we have had to discuss, frankly. I mean, he has done nothing wrong, nor a Shubman Gill, for that matter. You know, it's again, the combinations. We are not quite sure what conditions we'll get, so we wanted to try and have enough options," he explained.Agarkar emphasized that the decision was not a reflection of Rinku's abilities but rather a matter of selecting the best possible combination for the team. "It's just unfortunate. I don't think it's anything to do with Rinku Singh. It's not his fault that he has missed out. It's more the 15 that we felt gives (India the best chance). With two keepers who are both terrific batters, there is already an extra batter sitting out," he said.

India's T20 World Cup Squad: Should Rinku Singh Have Been Included?Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif has expressed his opinion on India's squad for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, suggesting that the team management could have considered including Rinku Singh.Rinku Singh's exclusion from the 15-member Indian squad has been a topic of debate among experts and fans. The explosive batter has impressed with his performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and for the Indian cricket team in T20Is.Chief selector Ajit Agarkar clarified that Rinku's omission was not due to any shortcomings on his part. However, he was included in the reserves, while Shivam Dube was rewarded for his form in the ongoing IPL.India opted for four spinners – Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Yuzvendra Chahal – for the tournament to be played in the USA and the Caribbean. However, many experts believe that four spinners may be excessive, given the pitches are likely to be more suited to pace bowling.Latif believes that Rinku Singh's experience in finishing matches could have been valuable for India. "Rinku Singh has the experience of finishing off, which we have already seen," Latif said. "In my opinion, if it seems there is one bowler extra, then Rinku Singh could have been in the squad."India's squad for T20 World Cup 2024:* Rohit Sharma (C)* Hardik Pandya (VC)* Yashasvi Jaiswal* Virat Kohli* Suryakumar Yadav* Rishabh Pant* Sanju Samson* Shivam Dube* Ravindra Jadeja* Axar Patel* Kuldeep Yadav* Yuzvendra Chahal* Arshdeep Singh* Mohammed Siraj* Jasprit BumrahReserves:* Shubman Gill* Rinku Singh* Khaleel Ahmed* Avesh Khan

Sanju Samson's exceptional performance in the ongoing IPL 2024 has earned him a spot in India's T20 World Cup squad as the second wicket-keeping option. This selection has sparked discussions about his potential batting position in the team.Samson, who consistently bats at No. 3 for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL, may have to adjust to a different role in the national team. Experts and fans speculate that he could bat at No. 5 due to the presence of established batters Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav, who have occupied the No. 3 and No. 4 positions respectively.When asked about his preferred batting position, Samson emphasized the importance of team success over individual preferences. "Winning the IPL is more important," he stated. "The players should focus on that goal only."Samson's impressive form in the IPL has been a key factor in his World Cup selection. With 385 runs at a strike rate of 161.08, he has been a top performer for Rajasthan Royals. His contributions have helped the team secure 16 points from 9 matches, putting them on the verge of IPL playoff qualification.While Samson will compete with Rishabh Pant for the wicket-keeping role in the Indian team, his versatility allows him to be considered as a specialist batter as well. His ability to adapt to different positions and contribute effectively makes him a valuable asset to the team.Samson's inclusion in the World Cup squad is a testament to his hard work and dedication. His performances in the IPL have showcased his exceptional talent and potential. As the team prepares for the global tournament, Samson's versatility and adaptability will be crucial in India's quest for success.

India's T20 World Cup Squad Selection: Rohit Sharma and Ajit Agarkar Address MediaOn Thursday, India captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar held a press conference to discuss the recently announced T20 World Cup 2024 squad. The duo addressed various questions regarding the selection process, including the omission of Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli's strike rate, and the wicket-keeping choices.Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill SnubAgarkar acknowledged that leaving out Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill was a difficult decision. He emphasized that both players had performed well, but the selection was based on team combinations.Virat Kohli's Strike RateAgarkar and Rohit dismissed concerns about Virat Kohli's strike rate, stating that it was not a factor in his selection. They highlighted his experience and ability to perform at the highest level.Wicket-Keeping ChoicesSanju Samson and Rishabh Pant were selected as wicket-keepers, while KL Rahul was omitted. Agarkar explained that Rahul's role as an opener for his IPL franchise influenced the decision.Shivam Dube's SelectionDespite not bowling regularly in the IPL, Shivam Dube was included in the squad. Rohit attributed this to his all-round abilities and his previous performances for India.Hardik Pandya's Form and Vice-CaptaincyAgarkar and Rohit expressed satisfaction with Hardik Pandya's fitness and form. They hoped he would continue to improve in the remaining IPL matches. They also stated that there had been no discussions regarding his vice-captaincy.ConclusionThe press conference provided insights into the selection process for India's T20 World Cup squad. The selectors emphasized the importance of team combinations, experience, and versatility in their decision-making.

India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad has raised concerns about the team's pace bowling capabilities. Despite the presence of Jasprit Bumrah, India lacks a consistent and in-form pacer. Hardik Pandya's underwhelming performances in the ongoing IPL have further dampened expectations.Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar has expressed his surprise at the omission of T Natarajan from the squad. Gavaskar praised Natarajan's impressive performances in the IPL, suggesting that he could have been a valuable addition to the team."I was thinking more like T Natarajan, the left-arm pacer bowler. He has been bowling extremely well. So, I thought maybe he could have been in the team," Gavaskar said.However, Gavaskar expressed confidence in the experience of the selected seam bowlers. "But that's okay. I think the seam bowlers that they have got, they all have experience. So no problem with that," he added.Another talking point has been the retention of Hardik Pandya as vice-captain despite his struggles in the IPL. Pandya has scored only 197 runs and taken just four wickets in 10 games.Gavaskar believes that Pandya will perform differently when playing for India. "There's a big difference playing in the IPL and playing for your country. Playing for your country brings out something different in every player and Hardik Pandya will be a different player," he said."He's had to face a lot of issues in this particular tournament (IPL), he's handled it quite well. When he goes overseas and has to play for India, I think he will be in a completely different frame of mind."Gavaskar also expressed optimism about India's chances of winning the World Cup. "They are title contenders, without a question. At the international level, sometimes you need a bit of luck and if this Indian team has just that little bit of luck, then I'm very confident that after 2007 (triumph), the T20 World Cup will come back to India."He believes that the players will be well-prepared for the tournament due to their extensive experience in the IPL. "They'll go with good rhythm (following the IPL); the bowlers would have bowled a fair bit of overs, the batters will have enough time out in the middle, some of them would have scored 80s, 90s 100s."

KL Rahul Omitted from India's T20 World Cup Squad: BCCI Chief Selector ExplainsThe Indian cricket team's wicket-keeping position for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 has been a subject of much debate. The selectors have ultimately opted for Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson, leaving out KL Rahul from the 15-member squad and reserves.This decision has raised eyebrows, considering Rahul's impressive form in the ongoing IPL 2024. He became the first wicket-keeper batter to score 400 runs in the competition this year. However, BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar has shed light on the rationale behind Rahul's exclusion.Agarkar explained that the selectors were prioritizing players who can bat in the middle order. Rahul, on the other hand, has primarily played as an opener for his IPL team, Lucknow Super Giants."KL's a terrific player. But we were looking for guys who bat in the middle. We feel Sanju has the ability to come down the order if need be. Rishabh is batting at No. 5 for DC. It wasn't whether KL is better or these guys are better. It's about the slots we needed, and we felt that these two are better equipped at this point in the latter half of the innings," Agarkar said.Agarkar also acknowledged the influence of IPL performances on team selection. However, he emphasized that the selectors do not solely rely on three months of cricket."It's a little bit of a challenge. You try and plan before the IPL starts. We had conversations in the last few months anyway. You keep a track of performances and fitness of players, but if you get swayed by three months of cricket, then there's something wrong in the way you pick players. We were pretty clear in our thinking," Agarkar added.