The prevailing sentiment among fans and cricket pundits is that the forthcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season will serve as a pivotal opportunity for players to impress selectors by showcasing their skills. Over the years, many players have earned their spot in the Indian team by showcasing exceptional performances in the IPL. Given the significance of IPL 2024, many believe that the performance in the T20 tournament will heavily influence the squad selection for India's T20 World Cup 2024 team.
However, it's unlikely that the Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel will solely rely on IPL performances when it comes to making crucial decisions for the upcoming T20 World Cup. According to a report in Hindustan Times, the selection process won't rely solely on IPL performances.
"IPL will be important, but it won’t be the main criteria for selection for the T20 World Cup. The selectors have more or less chalked out a squad. The IPL won’t change too much unless there is a breakthrough performance or a drastic dip in form," the source was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.
The latest development poses a challenge for Indian batting stalwart Virat Kohli, as his spot for the T20 World Cup 2024 is under doubt.
According to media reports, the selectors believe that Virat Kohli lacks the ability to start with explosive hits from the outset, and his gameplay might be slowing down with age in the fast-paced T20 format. As Kohli typically occupies the number 3 batting position in T20 cricket, India has alternative explosive openers like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Rituraj Gaikwad to consider alongside Rohit Sharma for top two spots.
Any of these three young players could also be considered for the number 3 position as well.
In Kohli's absence, KL Rahul, Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan are also top contenders to fill the number 3 slot. Moreover, world's number 1 T20 batsman, Suryakumar Yadav, presents another viable option for the number 3 position.
India is gearing up to participate in the T20 World Cup scheduled for June with the determined goal of breaking its ICC trophy drought.