Sanju Samson has been an outstanding performer for the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League 2024. In addition to his role as captain, he has demonstrated his batting and wicket-keeping abilities. He is in contention with Rishabh Pant for the wicket-keeper’s role in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Pant has performed consistently well throughout the 17th season of the tournament.
The selectors will select one of the two as the number one keeper. ESPN reports that the decision-makers are likely to prefer Samson over Pant due to the former’s ability to play spin well. The pitches in the West Indies and the United States of America will be slow, which may result in all teams opting for at least two spinners in their playing line-up. Mr. Pant will be travelling as a reserve wicket-keeper.
The report further states that the selectors will not solely rely on the performances in the cash-rich league, and the contributions in international cricket will also be considered.
Hardik Pandya, currently experiencing difficulties with Mumbai Indians in the ongoing season, is anticipated to be selected for the team, given his ability to bowl fast. Although he has not been as successful as we would have liked as a bowler, the selectors are prepared to give him more time to regain his bowling form.
The batting line-up will comprise Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav.
The probable line-up for India at the ICC T20 World Cup 2024
Top order: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav
Middle and lower-middle order: Sanju Samson, Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh
Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav
Fast bowlers: Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan/Mohammed Siraj
Other Options: KL Rahul, Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi, Sandeep Sharma