The clock is ticking for India as they approach the deadline for announcing their squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024. A major question mark hangs over the wicketkeeper position, with several talented players vying for the coveted spot. The competition for the spot has intensified due to Ishan Kishan's hiatus from international cricket, Rishabh Pant's impressive comeback, and the recent surge in performance by Sanju Samson and Dinesh Karthik.
List of six contenders battling out for the wicketkeeper slot in India's T20 World Cup squad:
Here is an in-depth analysis of the wicketkeeping contenders for India's T20 World Cup squad and their recent performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.
Ishan Kishan, experience with a question mark
Ishan Kishan's track record in IPL 2024
Matches Played: 8
Runs Scored: 192
Average: 24.00
Strike Rate: 168.42
Dismissals: 6
Among the wicketkeeping hopefuls, Ishan Kishan boasts the most recent experience in T20I cricket for India, having played since the conclusion of the last World Cup. However, his international outings haven't yielded the desired results – scoring just 253 runs in 13 matches with an average of 19.46 and a strike rate of 111.94.
While Kishan has managed a half-century in the ongoing IPL and maintains a decent strike rate (168.42), consistency remains a concern. Despite playing on a batting-friendly wicket like the Wankhede Stadium in five out of eight matches, he hasn't been able to capitalize consistently. This inconsistency, coupled with competition for a top-three batting slot from established names like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, and Suryakumar Yadav, could potentially hinder his World Cup wicketkeeper selection.
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Sanju Samson, a hot bat with a questionable fit
Sanju Samson's track record in IPL 2024
Matches Played: 8
Runs Scored: 314
Average: 62.80
Strike Rate: 152.00
Dismissals: 7
Sanju Samson, the captain of the Rajasthan Royals, has been on fire in the ongoing IPL season. He boasts an impressive 314 runs at a phenomenal average of over 62 and a strike rate exceeding 152. This consistent performance, highlighted by three half-centuries in eight matches, has solidified him as a rock in the Royals' middle order. His contributions extend beyond batting, as he also plays a vital role as both wicketkeeper and skipper, leading his team to the top of the points table.
Despite these impressive displays, Samson has struggled to secure a permanent spot in India's T20I team. While he has been given a few opportunities, his performances haven't quite been convincing. His lone outing in 2024 saw him dismissed for a golden duck during a top-order collapse against Afghanistan. Similar to Ishan Kishan, Samson is primarily utilised in the top four of the batting order, a position with fierce competition. However, his recent IPL dominance and aggressive playing style make him a compelling candidate for the T20 World Cup squad. The selectors will need to weigh his current red-hot form against his inconsistent international record when making their final decision.
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Rishabh Pant, a double-edged sword with World Cup ambitions
Rishabh Pant's track record in IPL 2024
Matches - 9
Runs - 342
Average - 48.85
Strike-rate - 161.32
Dismissals - 11
Rishabh Pant's return to cricket has been a sight for sore eyes. Following a period of recovery from a serious accident, he's displayed a remarkable comeback in the IPL. Pant has notched two half-centuries in his eight innings for the Delhi Capitals, showcasing a return to his pre-injury form. His glovework has also been exceptional, evidenced by his impressive display against the Gujarat Titans, where he effected four dismissals, including a stunning stumping.
This ability to handle both pace and spin bowling makes him a very attractive candidate for the T20 World Cup. His fearless batting approach in the middle-order would provide a welcome contrast to a lineup potentially stacked with more traditional batsmen.
However, Pant's T20 International record presents a challenge. His career statistics thus far haven't quite met expectations. Across 66 T20Is, he averages a modest 22.43 and strikes at a rate of 126.37. The selectors will face a tough decision – weighing his recent red-hot IPL form heavily against his past international performances to determine if he's the right fit for the World Cup squad.
Dinesh Karthik, the comeback veteran vying for a World Cup spot
Dinesh Karthik's track record in IPL 2024
Matches - 8
Runs - 251
Average - 62.75
Strike-rate - 196.09
Dismissals - 1
Nearly two years after his last stint with the Indian T20I team, Dinesh Karthik has emerged as a surprise contender for the upcoming World Cup squad. His impressive performances as a finisher for the Royal Challengers Bangalore have reignited selection discussions.
Despite RCB's overall struggles this season, Karthik has consistently showcased his value as a finisher, boasting a remarkable strike rate nearing 200. This explosive hitting style perfectly suits the requirements of a finisher in the T20 format.
With the Indian team actively seeking strong options to solidify their lower order, Karthik's recent IPL form could be a game-changer. He has openly expressed his determination to be part of the World Cup team, declaring his intention to "do everything I can to be on that flight." Whether his desire translates into selection remains to be seen, but his current form has certainly made him a player to watch.
KL Rahul, a capable contender but competition is fierce
KL Rahul's track record in IPL 2024
Matches - 7
Runs - 286
Average - 40.85
Strike-rate - 143.00
Dismissals - 9
KL Rahul remains on the outside looking in when it comes to India's T20 World Cup squad. While he hasn't donned the T20I jersey since the last edition of the tournament, India has historically favored experienced players for crucial roles. In this sense, Rahul's decent showing in IPL 2024 strengthens his case.
His successful middle-order batting in ODIs, particularly during last year's home World Cup, sparked speculation about a similar role in T20s. However, his exclusive opening role for the Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL suggests a different strategy.
The sheer number of contenders vying for top-order batting and wicketkeeping positions makes it an uphill battle for Rahul to break into the T20 World Cup squad. While his skills are undeniable, the intense competition may ultimately leave him on the sidelines.
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