The debate over who should keep wickets for India at the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024 is intensifying, with Sanju Samson and Rishabh Pant both strong contenders for the role. Former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has voiced his preference, favouring Pant for the Men in Blue’s playing combination ahead of the marquee event, which will be hosted in the West Indies and the USA.
For years, Rishabh Pant was seen as MS Dhoni’s successor behind the stumps across all formats. However, after Pant was sidelined indefinitely following a car crash in 2022, Samson’s prospects improved significantly. The Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain showcased his potential by scoring an ODI century against South Africa in January and has been in splendid form during the ongoing IPL season, amassing 504 runs in 14 matches.
Despite Samson’s impressive performances, Yuvraj Singh believes that the Indian team would benefit more from having the left-handed Pant in the middle order.
ALSO READ: Virat Kohli’s Security Concerns Lead To RCB’s Cancelled Practice Session In Ahmedabad
“I would probably go for Rishabh. Obviously, Sanju is also in great form, but Rishabh is a left-hander, and I believe that he has massive potential to win games for India, which he has demonstrated in the past, particularly in Test cricket. He’s someone who I feel can be a match-winner on the big stage,” Yuvraj Singh told the ICC.
The 2007 World Twenty20 winner emphasized the strategic advantage of left-right batting combinations, which he believes can pose significant challenges for bowlers. He also endorsed the opening duo of Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal, followed by Virat Kohli at No. 3 and Suryakumar Yadav at No. 4.
“I think Rohit and Yashasvi should definitely open. Virat has been batting at No. 3, which is his position. Then, you have Surya at four. I’d like to see a couple of left-hand, right-hand combinations because it is harder for bowlers to adjust to both simultaneously,” Yuvraj Singh added.
Additionally, Yuvraj Singh expressed his satisfaction with Yuzvendra Chahal’s return to the World Cup squad after being previously overlooked. Chahal has made a significant impact in the IPL, taking 17 wickets in 13 games so far.
ALSO READ: Ricky Ponting Praises Virat Kohli’s Big-Match Prowess Amid Selection Debates in India
“It’s great to see Yuzvendra Chahal in the squad because he’s been bowling exceptionally well. In the second half of the World Cup, the pitches might slow down, so having more spin options is beneficial. We have Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and the experienced Arshdeep Singh. It looks like a really strong side, but we have to prove it,” concluded Yuvraj Sngh.
As the T20 World Cup approaches, the decision between Pant and Samson remains critical, with both players bringing unique strengths to the team. Yuvraj’s insights reflect the broader strategic considerations that the team management will need to weigh to ensure India’s success on the global stage.
