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Hardik Pandya's underwhelming form in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 has cast doubt over his role in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. As per Indian Express, Team India's selectors, scouting across various venues, are reportedly considering Shivam Dube as a potential alternative. Notably, Pandya has scored just 131 runs with an average of 26.2 in a span of six matches while leading Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2024. As far as his bowling is concerned, he has taken mere three wickets. On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings' star Shivam Dube has amassed 242 runs at a dashing average of 60.50.
In a recent meeting at the BCCI headquarters in Mumbai involving head coach Rahul Dravid, selection committee chairman Ajit Agarkar, and captain Rohit Sharma focused heavily on finding a seam-bowling all-rounder for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 in the USA and West Indies. And Pandya's bowling hasn't clicked in the IPL 2024 so far.
Shivam Dube in contention of India's T20 World Cup squad
Meanwhile, Dube's strengths lie in his left-handed batting and ability to counter spinners effectively. This season, despite limitations imposed by the two-bouncer rule, he's shown improvement against pace bowling. His power-hitting adds a valuable dimension to the middle order. However, a key concern with Dube is his limited bowling role with the Chennai Super Kings. Primarily used as an ‘Impact Player’, his bowling contributions might be minimal if selected for India. This would essentially make him a part-time bowler, which isn't ideal for India's needs. The lack of other viable seam-bowling all-rounders leaves India heavily reliant on Pandya rediscovering his form. India's current bowling attack lacks strong batting options. A fit Pandya, bowling his full quota of overs, would provide much-needed depth in both batting and bowling, offering six reliable bowling options.
However, Pandya's recent lack of form and inconsistent bowling raise questions about his reliability. India, having placed their trust in him during the last 50-over World Cup, were ultimately hampered by his mid-tournament injury. This underscores India's desire for a fully-fit Pandya - someone who can consistently contribute with both bat and ball, not just a part-time bowling batsman.
Team India's preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup are gaining momentum. The BCCI is actively seeking input from team management regarding their specific requirements, particularly for the matches held in New York City, which will mark the USA's first major cricket event.
This proactive approach extends to logistical considerations. The Indian cricket board has already dispatched an official to the USA to scout potential hotels and other essential facilities for the team. India's quest for an ICC trophy continues. Their last victory came in 2013, and they narrowly missed out in 2023, falling to Australia in the 50-over World Cup final held in Ahmedabad.
Notably, T20 World Cup 2024 is set to start from June 2. Meanwhile, the grand finale of T20 World Cup 2024 will take place on June 29 in Barbados. The highly anticipated match between arch-rivals India and Pakistan will unfold in New York City on June 9, adding another chapter to their storied history.
INDIA’S GROUP-STAGE SCHEDULE
| Opponents | Dates | Venues |
| India vs Ireland | June 5 | New York |
| India vs Pakistan | June 9 | New York |
| India vs USA | June 12 | New York |
| India vs Canada | June 15 | Lauderhill |
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