Former Indian speedster RP Singh believes Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant should be included in the Indian playing XI for the forthcoming T20 World Cup. RP Singh remarked that during their World Cup campaign, India might take advantage of both wicketkeeper-batters’ batting talents.
Samson and Pant showcased exceptional batting form during IPL 2024, playing for Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Delhi Capitals (DC) respectively. This has drawn significant attention to how India’s captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid will utilize these two in-form batters in the upcoming tournament.a
“In my opinion, Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant should be included in the starting lineup. Sanju’s impressive performance in IPL 2024 suggests he could excel at number 3. I believe Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should open the batting. Sanju Samson at number 3. You could then play Suryakumar Yadav at 4, Rishabh Pant at 5, and Hardik Pandya at 6. Of course, the final team combination will depend on the captain and coach’s decision. This batting lineup would be an effective one for the team,” remarked Singh.
The 2007 T20 World Cup winner expressed confidence in Hardik Pandya and opined that Pandya will play a pivotal role for India in the T20 World Cup, dismissing concerns that the IPL 2024 controversy would impact his performance.
However, Hardik struggled to meet expectations as Mumbai Indians’ captain, leading the five-time champions to a last-place finish. In fact, the all-rounder was even booed by a section of MI’s own fans, who did not welcome him as their new skipper.
“As a player, commitment and strong performances are very crucial. Hardik Pandya showed his dedication, giving his all even in the IPL. He was bowling an entire spell of 4 overs. His form will be pivotal for the team’s balance. If he can find his rhythm early on, it will greatly benefit the squad,” he continued.
India will face Bangladesh in a warm-up match on June 1 in New York. They will then open their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland on June 5 before taking on arch-rivals Pakistan in New York on June 9.