Former Sri Lankan cricketer and current Rajasthan Royals Director of Cricket, Kumar Sangakkara, has tipped India as one of the frontrunners for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup.
Strength in Numbers
Kumar Sangakkara lauded India’s well-balanced squad, highlighting their strong batting lineup, potent all-rounders, and a high-quality spin attack. He believes the team possesses “very good combinations that they can play,” allowing for tactical flexibility based on conditions.
Experience and Adaptability: Kumar Sangakkara
“India’s always been very strong in international tournaments,” Sangakkara stated, acknowledging the team’s historical success and their ability to adapt to different scenarios. He believes head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Rohit Sharma will make informed decisions regarding team composition based on pitch and opponent.
Speaking on the team combination, he elaborated, “Knowing the conditions there, I’m sure Rahul (Dravid) and Rohit (Sharma) have a good idea of what the squad should be to play the cricket they want in the World Cup.”
“And they’ll be having two or three different combinations, depending on whether they want a deeper batting line-up or more strength in their bowling. But it’s a really well-balanced squad, a very strong squad and India’s always been very strong in international tournaments,” he added.
Rajasthan Royals well represented
Kumar Sangakkara expressed pride in having four Rajasthan Royals players – Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Yuzvendra Chahal, and (reserve) Avesh Khan – selected for the national team. He commended their dedication and ability to focus on their IPL performances despite the looming World Cup selection.
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Cautious Approach for T20 World Cup
While Sangakkara is optimistic, some critics believe the selectors played it safe by prioritizing experience over explosive young talent. The inclusion of Rishabh Pant after his injury recovery is a positive story, but the omission of Rinku Singh, known for his high strike rate, has raised questions.
India’s Strengths: Proven Performers
India boasts undeniable strengths. Jasprit Bumrah’s world-class pace attack is complemented by the reunited spin duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal. The return of a fit Suryakumar Yadav bolsters the batting, and Virat Kohli’s resurgence with 500 IPL runs and an improved strike rate is a welcome sign. Rohit Sharma’s leadership experience is another asset.
Potential Weaknesses: Lack of X-Factor
Concerns remain regarding India’s ability to match the aggressive batting styles seen in modern T20 cricket. Unlike teams like Australia, India lacks genuine all-rounders who can contribute significantly with both bat and ball. The selection of Hardik Pandya, based on past performance rather than current form, adds to this concern. Overall, the team might struggle against sides with more explosive hitters.
Well-Balanced India squad
Despite some reservations, Kumar Sangakkara’s endorsement adds to the growing anticipation surrounding India’s T20 World Cup campaign. The team’s blend of experience and talent makes them strong contenders, but their ability to adapt and counter aggressive tactics will be crucial to their success.
Editors pick
