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The T20 World Cup 2024 is set to commence within a week, as top international teams head to the West Indies and the United States of America (USA). Each of the 20 teams will aim to perform well and ultimately win the prestigious trophy.
The importance of openers in T20 cricket
One of the key aspects of T20 cricket is the role of the opening batters, who set the tone for the game. Effective openers can significantly influence the momentum, putting pressure on the opposition and setting a solid platform for the middle and lower order. While some teams have established opening duos, India are yet to finalize their opening combination for the upcoming global event. The contenders for India’s opening spots are Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli. India will play their first game against Ireland on June 5.
Rohit Sharma: The skipper’s form worry
One of the biggest concerns for Indian fans is the form of their captain, Rohit. The 37-year-old had a disappointing second half of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, often struggling against left-arm seamers. Rohit, known for his explosive starts and ability to play long innings, managed to score only 410 runs in 14 matches, with a modest average of 32.08 and a strike rate of 126.22. If Rohit can rediscover his form, he will be a formidable threat to many bowlers and crucial for India’s chances in the tournament.
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Yashasvi Jaiswal: The rising star
Jaiswal has been in tremendous run-scoring form, highlighted by a blistering century during the IPL 2024 season. The young southpaw scored 435 runs in 15 innings at an impressive strike rate of 155.91. His aggressive style and ability to score quickly make him a strong contender for the opening spot. Jaiswal’s recent performances have caught the eye of selectors and fans alike, making a compelling case for his inclusion in the starting XI.
Virat Kohli: The run machine
Kohli recently finished as the leading run-getter in IPL 2024, winning the prestigious Orange Cap. Kohli scored 741 runs in 15 games, averaging 61.75 with a strike rate of 154.69. He notched up five half-centuries and a century, showcasing his consistent performance. Kohli’s ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a high strike rate makes him a vital asset at the top of the order. His experience and big-match temperament will be crucial for India in the high-pressure environment of the World Cup.
Brian Lara and Matthew Hayden: Expert opinions on India’s opening combination
Speaking to Star Sports, former West Indies legend Brian Lara advocated for the experienced duo of Rohit and Kohli to open for India. Lara believed that if India wants to bat long throughout the innings, they need these two veterans to play longer. He further said that experienced players like Rohit and Virat at the top ensures stability and allows other batters to play around them as they know how to handle pressure and can guide the team through tough phases
Matthew Hayden, on the other hand, preferred a left-right combination at the top. He suggested Jaiswal and Kohli as the openers, with Suryakumar Yadav at number three and Rohit at number four to bolster the middle order with his experience.
