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After winning the inaugural edition of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in South Africa, the trophy has eluded India for 17 long years. The 2024 edition of the marquee event, to be held in USA and West Indies, is less than a month away. Let’s have a look at some of the major concerns of Team India ahead of the mega event.
Opening issue
It is not yet certain who will open for India in the T20 World Cup 2024 which is just round the corner. Based on the current form in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL), some experts are of the opinion that Virat Kohli should be the opening partner of southpaw Yashasvi Jaiswal and skipper Rohit Sharma should be pushed down the order.
However, considering the expected slower pitches, especially in the US, the partnership of Rohit and Kohli offers a blend of experience and skill. However, it lacks the left-handed element that Jaiswal brings to the mix. The team management seems to be perplexed over the issue.
SKY’s inconsistency
India’s Mr 360 degree batter Suryakumar Yadav (SKY) is arguable the best T20 batter for the Men in Blue. However, his inconsistency in IPL 2024 is a matter of concern. Moreover, the explosive batter is yet to produce a defining moment for India in ICC tournaments.
If India opt to open with Jaiswal and Rohit, SKY may face increased pressure as he is likely to receive fewer deliveries to settle in, with Kohli slated to bat at number three.
Only three pacers
India has included four spinners and only three pacers in the squad. The pacers are Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Arshdeep Singh. The development suggests that India is banking on all-rounder Hardik Pandya to be fully fit and capable of bowling his full quota of four overs in every match. However, considering Pandya’s injury history, it will be too much demanding for the vice-captain.
Spin combination
Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, and Yuzvendra Chahal are the four spinners selected in the Indian team. Considering the all-round abilities of Jadeja and Axar, it will be a herculean task for the team think tank to select the ideal spin combination suitable for the match situation considering the kind of surface and weather condition.
Lack of finisher
Omission of a finisher like Rinku Singh has also raised question marks. Rinku’s versatility in positions and ability to smash sixes at will make his absence felt, especially in high-scoring chases akin to many IPL encounters.
Knockout jinx
Since clinching the ICC Champions Trophy in England in 2013, India’s journey has been marked by five final losses and four semi-final exits. Question mark has been raised by several experts and fans over the India team’s ability to maintain composure under pressure during big matches of ICC tournaments.
