Former Indian fast bowler Zaheer Khan has expressed his belief that both Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube could find a place in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, set to commence on June 1 in the USA and the West Indies. This viewpoint comes in light of recent performances and team dynamics.
Dube significantly contributed to India's clean sweep in the 3-match T20I series against Afghanistan, earning the title of 'Player of the Series' due to his notable all-round performance. On the other hand, Hardik was absent from the series, recovering from an ankle injury sustained during an ODI World Cup match against Bangladesh in October 2023. During Hardik's recovery, Dube, an up-and-coming pace-bowling all-rounder for India, made a compelling case for inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad.
Previously sidelined for the 5-match T20I series against Australia and not selected for the 3-match T20I series against South Africa, Dube made an impactful return in the shortest format of the game. In what was India's final international fixture before the T20 World Cup, Dube excelled, emerging as the top scorer in the series with 124 runs, including two half-centuries. Cricket analysts have already identified Dube as an ideal backup for Pandya, who has been grappling with injury concerns.
Zaheer Khan suggests that accommodating both all-rounders in the squad could be feasible if India opts for just one wicket-keeper. This strategy could provide the team with added flexibility and depth in both batting and bowling.
"They definitely can be, if you are planning like that. It will depend a lot on whether you are looking for a sixth bowling option or want to play five bowlers, the direction in which you want to go," Zaheer told Colours Cineplex, as quoted by India Today.
"If you say you need a sixth bowling option, you need a backup as well. If you talk about the squad, you can see both Hardik and Shivam Dube together only if you take one wicketkeeper instead of two wicketkeepers," he added.
Regarding Hardik's return to cricket, he is expected to resume playing in the IPL 2024, leading the Mumbai Indians after taking over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma.
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