As the cricketing world gears up for the T20 World Cup, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has named his certain picks for India’s squad. In a surprising revelation, the choices don’t include big names like Virat Kohli or Shubman Gill. Instead, Ganguly has spotlighted Axar Patel and Rishabh Pant as his definite selections for the prestigious tournament, emphasizing their versatility and ability to deliver under pressure.
Key takeaways
- Sourav Ganguly endorses Axar Patel and Rishabh Pant for the T20 World Cup.
- Axar Patel lauded for his all-round ability and economic bowling.
- Rishabh Pant’s recovery from an accident and consistent performance highlighted.
- Ganguly’s confidence in Pant’s selection, despite competition for the wicketkeeper’s spot.
Contents
Axar Patel’s All-Round Prowess
Axar Patel’s exceptional performance with both bat and ball has caught the attention of Sourav Ganguly. With an impressive economy rate and the ability to adapt his batting as per the game’s demand, Patel’s all-round capabilities make him a valuable asset. Ganguly, now Delhi Capitals’ Director of Cricket, has witnessed Axar’s growth and is confident in his abilities to perform on the world stage.
Patel’s batting technique, honed even in the pressure of Test matches, translates well into the T20 format, where striking the ball is paramount. His talent in the shorter format is evident, and Ganguly sees him as a surefire selection for the upcoming World Cup, capable of delivering crucial runs and tight overs.
Rishabh Pant’s Indispensable Role
Despite the severe car accident that could have derailed his career, Rishabh Pant has bounced back with resilience. His recent performances, including multiple half-centuries in the ongoing IPL, have showcased his readiness and form. Ganguly’s confidence in Pant’s selection is unwavering, even as he acknowledges the stiff competition for the wicketkeeper-batsman spot in the team.
Ganguly’s admiration for Pant’s gameplay is evident, and he sees the 26-year-old as an integral part of the Indian T20 setup. Pant’s aggressive batting style and ability to take the game away from the opposition make him a favorite for one of the coveted spots in the squad.
Competition for Squad Spots
The race for a place in the Indian T20 World Cup team is heating up, with several talented players vying for limited spots. Ganguly’s comments suggest that while Axar Patel and Rishabh Pant are almost certain to be included, there is still room for others to make their mark. Players like Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan are also in the fray, keeping the selection discussions dynamic and open.
With the tournament approaching, performances in domestic leagues like the IPL are scrutinized more closely, as they can influence the final squad decisions. Ganguly’s insights provide a glimpse into the thought process of cricketing experts when considering team composition and strategy.
The Balance of Experience and Talent
Ganguly’s choices reflect a balance between experience and raw talent. While seasoned players like Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill are not mentioned, it does not diminish their potential contribution to the team. Instead, it highlights the depth of talent available and the importance of specific roles within the T20 format.
The focus on all-rounders like Axar Patel and impact players like Rishabh Pant indicates the evolving nature of T20 cricket, where flexibility and adaptability are key. Ganguly’s experience as a player and administrator provides valuable insight into the qualities sought after in T20 World Cup contenders.
| Player | Role | Key Attributes |
|---|---|---|
| Axar Patel | All-rounder | Economic bowling, flexible batting |
| Rishabh Pant | Wicketkeeper-batsman | Aggressive batting, resilience |
India’s T20 World Cup Squad is shaping up with Sourav Ganguly’s backing of Axar Patel and Rishabh Pant as certain selects. Their inclusion, according to Ganguly, will bolster the team with their respective all-round and batting capabilities. While the absence of Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill from his picks may raise eyebrows, it underscores the depth of India’s cricketing talent and the strategic considerations for the T20 format. As the tournament draws closer, all eyes will be on the selectors’ final decisions and the performances of these key players.
