Excitement filled the air as BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirmed Rohit Sharma as captain for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. This bold decision follows India’s remarkable run in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where they reached the final under Sharma’s leadership. Now, with eyes set on the T20 crown in Barbados, anticipation is at an all-time high.
“We may have lost the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup, but we won hearts with 10 consecutive wins. I’m confident India will lift the 2024 T20 World Cup under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy,” Jay Shah stated.
While questions arose about the captaincy after Hardik Pandya’s leadership stint, Rohit’s stellar return in the Afghanistan series silenced most doubts. His thunderous century provided a compelling argument for his experience and leadership, proving he remains a force to be reckoned with.
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Despite the bittersweet ODI World Cup journey, India under Sharma displayed exceptional resilience and talent. They dominated the round-robin stage, with Sharma himself emerging as the tournament’s second-highest run-scorer. This ignited hope for a repeat performance in the T20 format, where India hasn’t lifted the trophy since 2007.
VIDEO | Here’s what Asian Cricket Council president and BCCI secretary Jay Shah (@JayShah) said while addressing an event in Rajkot.
“In 2023 (final) at Ahmedabad, even though we did not win the World Cup after 10 straight wins, we won hearts. I want to promise you that in 2024… pic.twitter.com/GcEJjSdiLs
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) February 14, 2024
However, the road to Barbados won’t be without its challenges. Rohit’s captaincy announcement sparked debate, with some favouring Pandya’s dynamic leadership in T20s. Additionally, several players, including Pandya himself, are recovering from injuries, raising concerns about team composition.
World Cup kicks off on June 1st, with India facing Ireland in New York. However, all eyes are set on the clash against Pakistan just four days later. This high-voltage encounter promises a thrilling start to India’s campaign.
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With the IPL providing crucial pre-tournament practice, Rohit Sharma will have the opportunity to fine-tune his team and strategies. His proven leadership, combined with the team’s undeniable talent, fuels optimistic dreams of lifting the trophy on Barbadian soil.
India’s Schedule in T20 World Cup 2024
- India vs Ireland – June 5 in New York
- India vs Pakistan – June 9 in New York
- India vs USA – June 12 in New York
- India vs Canada – June 15 in Florida