Lack of all-rounders a worry for Team India ahead of 2024 T20 WC: experts.
As the 2024 T20 World Cup approaches, former cricketers have flagged India’s lack of versatile bowling all-rounders as a potential concern, given the showpiece event won’t feature an ‘impact player’ provision. Irfan Pathan said more bowling options are needed to offset the imbalance, citing the top order of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Suryakumar Yadav’s inability to roll their arms.
The veteran suggested including youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal, who can contribute with the ball if required and is a capable batsman.
Echoing these thoughts, Sanjay Manjrekar stated that players like Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya must prove their bowling credentials to be given the coveted sixth bowling option.
He drew parallels with Australia, whose batters double up as all-rounders, underlining the advantage such flexibility provides.
While Axar Patel and Dube have been included to fill the gaps, much depends on Hardik regaining full fitness and providing the indispensable lower-order runs plus three to four overs.
Experts agreed that the squad’s specialist talents are praiseworthy, but some versatility may come in handy, especially in crunch moments without concussion substitutes bailing teams out.
How India manages team balance without fallback options will be keenly watched, with selectors hoping to have cracking solutions well in advance.
