Former cricketer and noted commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has unveiled his picks for India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, making some unexpected decisions that have surprised the cricket world. In a bold move, Manjrekar has left out veteran batsman Virat Kohli and all-rounder Hardik Pandya, instead opting for some fresh faces and tactical changes.
Key Squad Selections
Manjrekar’s 15-member squad includes Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal as openers, with Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav filling the crucial top-order positions. The squad features a heavy batting lineup with three wicket-keepers, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, and Samson, indicating a strategy that values versatility and depth in batting.
Manjrekar has selected Ravindra Jadeja and Krunal Pandya, Lucknow Super Giants’ dynamic players in the all-rounder category, excluding pace-bowling options like Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube. This selection could be seen as a strategic pivot towards spin and batting depth over pace-bowling all-rounders.
Spin and Pace – A Balanced Attack
Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal will spearhead the spin department, both known for their wicket-taking abilities and crucial match performances. The pace attack is robust, featuring Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, with Avesh Khan and Harshit Rana rounding out the fast-bowling options.
Manjrekar highlighted Kuldeep Yadav’s current form and confidence, comparing his impact on the game to that of other cricketing stalwarts. “This is perhaps Kuldeep Yadav at his peak,” Manjrekar noted. “You can see now he’s out there commanding respect like a peak Bumrah or Chahal. He is comfortable with the responsibility and champions those critical moments in a game.”
Fan Reactions and Expert Opinions
The exclusion of Kohli and Pandya has sparked debates among fans and experts alike. Some view it as a forward-looking move, focusing on building a team for future challenges, while others express concern over the absence of proven performers in major tournaments.
Final Squad List:
- Batsmen: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav
- Wicket-Keepers: Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Sanju Samson
- All-rounders: Ravindra Jadeja, Krunal Pandya
- Spinners: Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal
- Pacers: Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Avesh Khan, Harshit Rana
- Reserve: Mayank Yadav
With the T20 World Cup around the corner, the cricket community is keenly watching how these selections will pan out on the international stage. Manjrekar’s choices reflect a blend of experience and emerging talent, setting the stage for a thrilling showcase of cricketing skills.
