As Team India progresses into the mid-stage of the T20 World Cup 2024, they seem to have solidified their playing XI. Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who was selected over Shubman Gill, has yet to play a match as Virat Kohli has taken on the role of opening the innings alongside Rohit Sharma.
The team’s pacers have hit their stride, with each bowler contributing to the wicket tally. Avesh Khan, initially a travelling reserve, has now fallen out of contention. Reports indicate that both Avesh Khan and Shubman Gill will return to India following the USA leg of the tournament.
On Wednesday, both players were spotted travelling with the team from New York to Fort Lauderdale via a chartered flight. Gill and Avesh were part of the squad as a precaution against potential injuries to other players. With the conclusion of the USA matches, their roles have diminished, necessitating their return to India.
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Meanwhile, Rinku Singh and Khaleel Ahmed, other reserves, remain with the team. The decision to send Gill and Avesh back was anticipated. Gill, although not given a playing opportunity, will return home with Jaiswal as the backup opener.
Shubman Gill and Avesh Khan set to be released from India’s squad after the match against Canada. (News18). pic.twitter.com/yKU3VJoHXD
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 13, 2024
In Avesh’s case, the team’s current lineup of right-arm pacers—Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Hardik Pandya, and Shivam Dube—provides ample coverage. Should Arshdeep Singh suffer an injury, Khaleel Ahmed, a left-arm pacer, is a strategic reserve option.
India has already secured a spot in the Super 8 stages of the T20 World Cup 2024, following a victory over the USA on June 12. Their first Super 8 match is scheduled for June 20. Subsequent matches will take place in Antigua on June 22 and St. Lucia on June 24.
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If India advances to the semifinals, they will compete in Georgetown, Guyana, on June 27, with the final set for Bridgetown on June 29. This strategic planning and solid team performance reflect India’s preparation and adaptability as they aim for T20 World Cup glory.
