According to a report in Cricbuzz, wicketkeeper batsman Rishabh Pant could become the vice-captain of the Indian cricket team ahead of all-rounder Hardik Pandya for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Pant made a spectacular comeback in IPL 2024 after being out of action following his fatal car accident in December 2022. Hardik Pandya, on the other hand, has struggled as both a batsman and bowler in the ongoing competition with many experts. His ability to lead the star-studded Mumbai Indians team is being questioned. The report claims that going by current form, Pant has an edge over Hardik when it comes to the race to become Rohit Sharma’s deputy in the T20 World Cup 2024.
“The national selectors are likely to meet on May 1 to consider re-appointing Pant as India’s vice-captain after suffering a long-term injury following a fatal accident in December. Earlier he was on this post till 2022.
“Pant also captained India in the five-match T20I series against South Africa in June 2022. For the record, he will be India’s first-choice wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup in June.” The report said.
There are some other positions where questions remain like the competition for the second wicketkeeper position between Sanju Samson and KL Rahul. Both the cricketers have performed well for their respective franchises in IPL 2024 and it could depend on the priorities of the selectors.
“Apart from other selection issues, the top order will consist of captain Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav. The middle order will consist of Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja. There will be one or both of Shivam Dubey and Rinku Singh. ” Will be there with Sanju Samson or KL Rahul,” the report further said.
While Kuldeep Yadav looks like a confirmed member of the Indian team for the World Cup, experienced spinner Yuzvendra Chahal may be out once again despite good performances for Rajasthan Royals.
“Kuldeep Yadav will occupy the specialist spinner’s position, and Axar Patel may pip Ravi Bishnoi for the other spinner’s position. It is unlikely that Yuzvendra Chahal, the leading wicket-taker in the IPL, will be considered.”
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