‘Good problem…’: Gavaskar on India’s opening combination for T20 WC
NEW DELHI: As India gear up for the T20 World Cup next year, the ongoing T20I series against South Africa becomes a crucial stepping stone for the ‘Men in Blue.’
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors have showcased their willingness to infuse youth into the squad, emphasising a strategic approach towards ending India’s ICC title drought since 2013.
The current South Africa Tour squad reflects this approach, featuring promising youngsters like Rinku Singh, Arshdeep Singh, and Tilak Varma.
The leadership reins for the T20I series have been handed to Suryakumar Yadav, with regular captain Rohit Sharma opting for a break from the white-ball leg of the tour. However, speculation persists about Sharma’s potential inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad.
Cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar, talking to Star Sports ahead of the first T20I against South Africa, weighed in on India’s likely opening combination.
“For this series, Shubman Gill and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Yashasvi Jaiswal is also there. He has also done well. If the team wants a left-hand, right-hand combination then Shubman Gill and
Yashashvi Jaiswal,” Gavaskar commented on Star Sports, highlighting the wealth of talent available.
Gavaskar acknowledged the positive conundrum faced by the team management, with the presence of Rohit Sharma adding depth to the options.
“It’s a very good problem to have. Also, there is Rohit Sharma, who is waiting, whether he is going to be available for the T20 World Cup that remains to be seen,” Gavaskar added, hinting at the dynamic challenges and choices faced by the selectors.
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Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir lauded the ‘Men in Blue’ for their strategic approach, underlining the significance of giving opportunities to emerging talents in the build-up to the T20 World Cup.
As the T20I series unfolds, all eyes are on the young guns who have the chance to stake their claim for a spot in the much-anticipated T20 World Cup squad, with India eager to break their ICC title jinx.
