As the BCCI's selection committee prepares to announce India's T20 World Cup squad, the focus remains on the wicketkeeping position. Rishabh Pant's stellar performance in IPL 2024 solidified his spot as the primary wicketkeeper. However, the battle for the backup position has intensified, with Sanju Samson and KL Rahul in contention. Despite Rahul's notable skills, a recent report suggests he may have fallen out of consideration, leaving the selectors to explore new options alongside Samson.
Initially, six wicketkeepers vied for the two spots in the 15-member squad during IPL 2024. Jitesh Sharma emerged as a strong candidate after showcasing impressive finishing skills in previous T20I series. However, Pant's return to form after a 15-month hiatus shifted the dynamics. Competitors like Jurel and Ishan Kishan also entered the fray but faced challenges due to inconsistent performances.
Following Pant's resurgence in IPL 2024, the focus narrowed to Samson and Rahul for the backup wicketkeeper role. However, Rahul's potential exclusion stems from the selectors' reluctance to accommodate another top-order batsman, given the lineup's composition. Samson, despite a standout season with Rajasthan Royals, may face similar considerations due to his batting position.
Samson's stellar IPL performance, with 385 runs at a strike rate of 161, underscores his value in the middle order, particularly against spin. However, the selectors aim to bolster the lower-middle order with specialist options for positions 5, 6, and 7. This shift in strategy brings contenders like Jitesh and Jurel back into contention, despite their relatively modest IPL performances.
While Jitesh and Jurel's IPL stats may not match Samson's, their potential to fulfill specific roles in the middle-lower order adds to the selectors' dilemma. Jitesh's limited but impactful contributions and Jurel's match-winning knock against Lucknow Super Giants highlight their utility in pressure situations.
As the deadline for squad submission approaches, the selectors face the challenging task of balancing experience, form, and strategic requirements to assemble India's T20 World Cup squad.
