File photo of Hardik Pandya© X (formerly Twitter)
Wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant could become the vice-captain of the Indian cricket team for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024, ahead of all-rounder Hardik Pandya, according to a report by Cricbuzz. Pant made an impressive comeback in IPL 2024 after being out of action since his near-fatal car accident in December 2022. On the other hand, Hardik Pandya – both as a batsman and bowler – has struggled in the ongoing pundit-heavy competition. he doubted his ability to lead the star-studded Mumbai Indians. The report claimed that Pant has an advantage over Hardik given their current form when it comes to the race to become Rohit Sharma's deputy in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
“The national selectors, likely to meet on May 1, are expected to consider reappointing Pant as India vice-captain, a position he held before being forced into a long injury break following a near-fatal accident in December 2022 .”
“Pant even captained India in the five-match T20I series against South Africa in June 2022. For the record, he will be India's first-choice wicketkeeper for the T20 World Cup in June.” the report said.
There are few other positions where questions remain like the competition between Sanju Samson and KL Rahul to claim the second wicketkeeper position. Both cricketers have performed well in the IPL 2024 for their respective franchises and it may come down to the selectors' preferences.
“Apart from other selection issues, the top order will consist of skipper Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav. The middle order will consist of Rishabh Pant, Hardik Pandya and Ravindra Jadeja. One or both of Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh will be present there along with Sanju Samson or KL Rahul,” the report said.
While Kuldeep Yadav seems to be a guaranteed member of the Indian squad for the World Cup, veteran spinner Yuzvendra Chahal could miss out again despite performing well for Rajasthan Royals.
“Kuldeep Yadav will take the specialist spinner's position, and Axar Patel can beat Ravi Bishnoi for the other spinner's position. Yuzvendra Chahal, the highest wicket-taker in the IPL, is unlikely to be considered,” it concluded.
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