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As the cricketing world gears up for the much-anticipated T20 World Cup 2024, the focus shifts to the squad selections, igniting debates and speculations among fans and experts alike. Amidst this buzz, former New Zealand cricketer turned commentator, Simon Doull, has thrown his hat into the ring with a bold prediction about India’s squad selection, particularly concerning two star batters who could find themselves sidelined.
India’s selection conundrum: Plenty of options, tough decisions
With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 in full swing, performances in the league have inevitably influenced discussions around squad selections for the upcoming ICC event. The resurgence of Rishabh Pant, the consistent brilliance of Shubman Gill, and the emergence of talents like Rinku Singh have only added to the selection conundrum.
Simon Doull’s bold assertion: Rohit and Kohli are must-haves
However, Doull’s recent insights have shed light on the direction India might take when finalizing their squad. While Rohit Sharma‘s captaincy is already confirmed, questions loom over the inclusion of Virat Kohli, especially after his noteworthy performances in the IPL. Interestingly, Doull picked the duo as must-haves in his recent interview to Cricbuzz.
Star batters on the chopping block: Doull picks two batters who might miss out
Doull’s assertion that both Rohit and Kohli are indispensable in the Indian squad sets a definitive tone. He goes further to suggest that certain star batters might have to make way to accommodate the duo.
In a surprising twist, the cricketer-turned-commentator predicted that Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant could find themselves sidelined. Despite their impressive form in the IPL, Doull suggests that tough decisions may lie ahead, with Gill and Pant potentially facing the axe to accommodate the experienced stalwarts.
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Strategic insights: Versatility and composition
Doull also emphasized the importance of versatility in squad composition, particularly in the top-order. He hinted that players like KL Rahul, with the ability to keep wickets, might have an edge over others. Doull’s analysis suggests a strategic approach, envisioning a top-order comprising the likes of Jaiswal, Rohit, Virat, and Rahul.
“Not yet. No, no, no…He’s (Shubman Gill) got a, you know, I mean, that spot up the top when you take in a World Cup 15. It should be 18 in my opinion. But when you’re taking that side and you’re picking it, you really only carry one extra top-order batter. You’ve probably only room for one top-order replacement batter if it happens to be someone like KL Rahul, who can keep wickets for you. And that is a real bonus. That top-order replacement batter, he keeps, Shubman doesn’t keep. And if he can’t make the side ahead of Jaiswal, Rohit and Virat at the moment, he probably doesn’t go,” Doull said.
“Rishabh Pant has to do a lot more to get into my side. He has to be Rishabh Pant, the batter, because there are a number of people who can keep him as well. He has got to show me he is capable of batting at five in the middle order before anything. He is still a little bit one-dimensional in his hitting,” he added.
