Cricket Australia (CA) on Wednesday (May 1) announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia as former captain Steve Smith&nbsp;was dropped&nbsp;while there was no place for Delhi Capitals’ Jake Fraser-McGurk. Australia, having won the 2021 edition of the T20 World&nbsp;Cup&nbsp;will bid to become the first team to hold the world title tags in all three formats&nbsp;at the same time&nbsp;if they win the upcoming tournament in the USA and the West Indies. Interestingly, despite being in the&nbsp;squad, Pat Cummins will not play the captaincy role and instead, Mitchell Marsh has been given the nod.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Introducing our 15-player squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to head to the West Indies - led by our new full-time T20 skipper, Mitch Marsh 👊 
 
Congratulations to those selected 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/vETFIGPQL6">pic.twitter.com/vETFIGPQL6</a>
— Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/1785489315230859446?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Australia drop Smith</h2>

A veteran member of the squad in the last decade, Smith was dropped in favour of Cameron Green&nbsp;who&nbsp;will play as an extra&nbsp;all-rounder, while Ashton Agar&nbsp;has also been picked&nbsp;for the showpiece event in the USA and the West Indies. National team selector and former player George Bailey cleared the air on the situation, stating the likes of Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell and Green are better suited to the winning conditions. &nbsp;

"We believe Ashton can play a critical role in this tournament along with Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Cam Green and Mitch Marsh in complementing our front-line attack options," Bailey said.

"The batting options available allow a tailored approach to each venue and opponent."

Mitchell Marsh will lead the 15-member pack&nbsp;in the USA, having&nbsp;first led during the South Africa tour in September 2023.&nbsp;According to Cricket Australia, Marsh is fit and will lead the side despite being unfit and&nbsp;not available&nbsp;for Delhi Capitals during the Indian Premier League. His colleague at DC, Fraser-&nbsp;McGurk&nbsp;was unfortunate to miss out despite being one of the standout players in the IPL 2024.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/did-impact-player-rule-led-to-rinku-singhs-ouster-from-t20-wc-squad-bcci-official-reveals-716754">Impact Player rule led to Rinku Singh’s ouster from India’s T20 WC squad? BCCI official reveals</a>

The Aussies have picked two wicketkeepers&nbsp;with&nbsp;Josh Inglis and Matthew Wade getting the nod as expected.&nbsp;The bowling attack will&nbsp;be spearheaded&nbsp;by&nbsp;Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa and Josh Hazlewood.&nbsp;

<h2>Australia T20 World Cup 2024 squad</h2>

Mitchell Marsh (capt), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade (wk), David Warner, Adam Zampa

Cricket Australia (CA) on Wednesday (May 1) announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia as former captain Steve Smith was dropped while there was no place for Delhi Capitals’ Jake Fraser-McGurk.

Cricket Australia (CA) on Wednesday (May 1) announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in Australia as former captain Steve Smith was dropped while there was no place for Delhi Capitals’ Jake Fraser-McGurk. Australia, having won the 2021 edition of the T20 World Cup will bid to become the first team to hold the world title tags in all three formats at the same time if they win the upcoming tournament in the USA and the West Indies. Interestingly, despite being in the squad, Pat Cummins will not play the captaincy role and instead, Mitchell Marsh has been given the nod. Introducing our 15-player squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup to head to the West Indies - led by our new full-time T20 skipper, Mitch Marsh 👊 Congratulations to those selected 👏#T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/vETFIGPQL6 — Cricket Australia (@CricketAus) May 1, 2024 × Australia drop Smith A veteran member of the squad in the last decade, Smith was dropped in favour of Cameron Green who will play as an extra all-rounder, while Ashton Agar has also been picked for the showpiece event in the USA and the West Indies. National team selector and former player George Bailey cleared the air on the situation, stating the likes of Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell and Green are better suited to the winning conditions. "We believe Ashton can play a critical role in this tournament along with Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Cam Green and Mitch Marsh in complementing our front-line attack options," Bailey said. "The batting options available allow a tailored approach to each venue and opponent." Mitchell Marsh will lead the 15-member pack in the USA, having first led during the South Africa tour in September 2023. According to Cricket Australia, Marsh is fit and will lead the side despite being unfit and not available for Delhi Capitals during the Indian Premier League. His colleague at DC, Fraser- McGurk was unfortunate to miss out despite being one of the standout players in the IPL 2024. ALSO READ | Impact Player rule led to Rinku Singh’s ouster from India’s T20 WC squad? BCCI official reveals The Aussies have picked two wicketkeepers with Josh Inglis and Matthew Wade getting the nod as expected. The bowling attack will be spearheaded by Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa and Josh Hazlewood. Australia T20 World Cup 2024 squad Mitchell Marsh (capt), Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Starc, Marcus Stoinis, Matthew Wade (wk), David Warner, Adam Zampa

T20 World Cup 2024: Jake Fraser-McGurk, Steve Smith left out of Australia squad; Mitchell Marsh to lead

On Wednesday (May 1), former England captain Michael Vaughan predicted the semifinalists of the 2024 T20 World Cup. The upcoming edition will be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Many major teams have announced their squads for the mega event and, thus, Vaughan shared his last four for the ninth edition. While many former cricketers and experts have named India and Australia or India and England as the two finalists, Vaughan made a bold claim by not including the Asian giants.&nbsp;

Neither India nor Pakistan!

Vaughan's T20 WC semifinalists are defending champions England, Australia, South Africa and co-hosts West Indies. He wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "My 4 Semi finalists for the T20 WC … England, Austrlalia, South Africa and the West Indies .. #T20WC2024"

Here is the post:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
My 4 Semi finalists for the T20 WC … England,Austrlalia,South Africa and the West Indies .. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WC2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WC2024</a>
— Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/1785567519148761347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-sunil-gavaskar-names-this-india-pacer-who-should-have-been-in-men-in-blues-squad-716961">T20 World Cup: Sunil Gavaskar names THIS India pacer who should have been in Men in Blue's squad</a>

Barring the Rovman Powell-led West Indies, all the other three teams have announced their respective squads. Pakistan have also not announced their 15-man squad but they are expected to reveal it by Wednesday, which is the cutoff date for all participating teams.

Meanwhile, the BCCI announced India's 15-man squad on Tuesday (April 30). Rohit Sharma will spearhead the Men in Blue with regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah also being part of the squad. Rishabh Pant -- who made his return to competitive cricket in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition -- and Sanju Samson have also been picked. Shivam Dube is also part of the main squad, which doesn't comprise Rinku Singh and KL Rahul.

The likes of Shubman Gill, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan and Rinku are part of the reserves.&nbsp;

India Squad for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

On Wednesday (May 1), former England captain Michael Vaughan predicted the semifinalists of the 2024 T20 World Cup. The upcoming edition will be held in the West Indies and USA in June.

On Wednesday (May 1), former England captain Michael Vaughan predicted the semifinalists of the 2024 T20 World Cup. The upcoming edition will be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Many major teams have announced their squads for the mega event and, thus, Vaughan shared his last four for the ninth edition. While many former cricketers and experts have named India and Australia or India and England as the two finalists, Vaughan made a bold claim by not including the Asian giants. Neither India nor Pakistan! Vaughan's T20 WC semifinalists are defending champions England, Australia, South Africa and co-hosts West Indies. He wrote on X, formerly Twitter, "My 4 Semi finalists for the T20 WC … England, Austrlalia, South Africa and the West Indies .. #T20WC2024" Here is the post: My 4 Semi finalists for the T20 WC … England,Austrlalia,South Africa and the West Indies .. #T20WC2024 — Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) May 1, 2024 × Also read: T20 World Cup: Sunil Gavaskar names THIS India pacer who should have been in Men in Blue's squad Barring the Rovman Powell-led West Indies, all the other three teams have announced their respective squads. Pakistan have also not announced their 15-man squad but they are expected to reveal it by Wednesday, which is the cutoff date for all participating teams. Meanwhile, the BCCI announced India's 15-man squad on Tuesday (April 30). Rohit Sharma will spearhead the Men in Blue with regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, vice-captain Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah also being part of the squad. Rishabh Pant -- who made his return to competitive cricket in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition -- and Sanju Samson have also been picked. Shivam Dube is also part of the main squad, which doesn't comprise Rinku Singh and KL Rahul. The likes of Shubman Gill, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan and Rinku are part of the reserves. India Squad for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

Neither India nor Pakistan! Michael Vaughan predicts T20 World Cup semifinalists

On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. Rohit Sharma will lead India in the upcoming edition, with Hardik Pandya returning to the national side as the vice-captain. Meanwhile, the squad also saw the inclusion of Shivam Dube, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson whereas four of them were named as reserves. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar shared his views on the provisional squad and feels T Natarajan, playing for the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2024, should have been added.

Natarajan has been part of the Pat Cummins-led SRH franchise in the ongoing IPL season. He has been an integral part of the lineup, nailing his yorkers and maintaining&nbsp;stringent lines in&nbsp;death overs. Natarajan has picked 13 wickets at an average of 19.38 and a strike rate of 12.92. Although he has been a bit expensive, with an economy of 9, he has bowled the tough overs in the end. Thus, Gavaskar feels Natarajan should have been part of the 15-man squad, which comprises reserve players such as Avesh Khan and Khaleel Ahmed.&nbsp;

<h2>'T Natarajan&nbsp;has been bowling extremely well'</h2>

While talking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "I was thinking more like T Natarajan, the left-arm pacer bowler. He has been bowling extremely well. So, I thought maybe he could have been in the team. But that's okay. I think the seam bowlers that they have got, they all have experience. So no problem with that."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/10-steps-back-fans-furious-post-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-announced-by-bcci-716690">‘10 steps back’: Fans furious post India’s T20 World Cup squad announcement by BCCI</a>

Notably, India will enter the T20 WC with four spinners (Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Kuldeep Yadav) and just three specialist pacers. However,&nbsp;Gavaskar believes that all-rounder Hardik Pandya&nbsp;will serve as the fourth-seam bowling option for the one-time winners.

Gavaskar said, "Well, there is Hardik Pandya to bowl as well as the fourth seam bowler, so maybe that's the reason they've (selectors) gone with four spin bowlers. The pitches in the West Indies... there'll be a little more help for the spinners than for the quick bowlers. As we have seen in the IPL, the slower the deliveries, the harder it is for the batters to hit and that's perhaps the reason why they have gone with extra spinner."

Gavaskar highlighted that a change in 'attitude' and 'approach'&nbsp;could ensure the Rohit-led team's success in the upcoming edition and help them end their trophy hunt since 2013. He added, "There have been changes in attitude, changes in approach, which we saw in the 50-over World Cup (last year in India), and that augurs well for this (T20) World Cup as well."

India Squad for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav,&nbsp;Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal,&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. Rohit Sharma will lead India in the upcoming edition, with Hardik Pandya returning to the national side as the vice-captain.

On Tuesday (April 30), the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, in the West Indies and USA. Rohit Sharma will lead India in the upcoming edition, with Hardik Pandya returning to the national side as the vice-captain. Meanwhile, the squad also saw the inclusion of Shivam Dube, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson whereas four of them were named as reserves. Former Indian opener-turned-commentator Sunil Gavaskar shared his views on the provisional squad and feels T Natarajan, playing for the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2024, should have been added. Natarajan has been part of the Pat Cummins-led SRH franchise in the ongoing IPL season. He has been an integral part of the lineup, nailing his yorkers and maintaining stringent lines in death overs. Natarajan has picked 13 wickets at an average of 19.38 and a strike rate of 12.92. Although he has been a bit expensive, with an economy of 9, he has bowled the tough overs in the end. Thus, Gavaskar feels Natarajan should have been part of the 15-man squad, which comprises reserve players such as Avesh Khan and Khaleel Ahmed. 'T Natarajan has been bowling extremely well' While talking to India Today, Gavaskar said, "I was thinking more like T Natarajan, the left-arm pacer bowler. He has been bowling extremely well. So, I thought maybe he could have been in the team. But that's okay. I think the seam bowlers that they have got, they all have experience. So no problem with that." Also read: ‘10 steps back’: Fans furious post India’s T20 World Cup squad announcement by BCCI Notably, India will enter the T20 WC with four spinners (Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Kuldeep Yadav) and just three specialist pacers. However, Gavaskar believes that all-rounder Hardik Pandya will serve as the fourth-seam bowling option for the one-time winners. Gavaskar said, "Well, there is Hardik Pandya to bowl as well as the fourth seam bowler, so maybe that's the reason they've (selectors) gone with four spin bowlers. The pitches in the West Indies... there'll be a little more help for the spinners than for the quick bowlers. As we have seen in the IPL, the slower the deliveries, the harder it is for the batters to hit and that's perhaps the reason why they have gone with extra spinner." Gavaskar highlighted that a change in 'attitude' and 'approach' could ensure the Rohit-led team's success in the upcoming edition and help them end their trophy hunt since 2013. He added, "There have been changes in attitude, changes in approach, which we saw in the 50-over World Cup (last year in India), and that augurs well for this (T20) World Cup as well." India Squad for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

T20 World Cup: Sunil Gavaskar names THIS India pacer who should have been in Men in Blue's squad

On Tuesday (April 30), the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Rohit Sharma will lead the national side while Hardik Pandya will be his deputy. Among the big names, both Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson have been included in the provisional squad, while&nbsp;KL Rahul has been left out. The likes of Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill have been named in the reserves.

BCCI shared India's squad on their official handle on X, formerly Twitter. Here is the post:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🚨India’s squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 announced 🚨 
 
Let's get ready to cheer for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/jIxsYeJkYW">pic.twitter.com/jIxsYeJkYW</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1785250931166060585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Talking about the squad, Rinku Singh -- who averages a whopping 89 and strikes at&nbsp;176.23 in 15 T20Is -- and KL Rahul are the two big names to miss out. Rinku has done incredibly well in the limited chances he has got for Team India in the shortest format. However, Shivam Dube, Hardik and Ravindra Jadeja got the nod ahead of him. Dube has been in top form, both for India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the past year and, hence, got rewarded. 
 
Meanwhile, Rahul was also in contention but missed out with Pant -- who made his return to competitive cricket during IPL 2024 -- and Samson edged past the former due to their form in the ongoing IPL season. Pant and Samson have been among runs in the 2024 edition, fourth and sixth-highest run-getter respectively, with a better strike-rate than Rahul.

The regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammed Siraj, etc., have been included in the squad while Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have also been included in the team.&nbsp;

India Squad for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav,&nbsp;Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal,&nbsp;Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.

Reserves:&nbsp;Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

On Tuesday (April 30), the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June.

On Tuesday (April 30), the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee announced India's 15-man squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in the West Indies and USA in June. Rohit Sharma will lead the national side while Hardik Pandya will be his deputy. Among the big names, both Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson have been included in the provisional squad, while KL Rahul has been left out. The likes of Rinku Singh and Shubman Gill have been named in the reserves. BCCI shared India's squad on their official handle on X, formerly Twitter. Here is the post: 🚨India’s squad for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 announced 🚨 Let's get ready to cheer for #TeamIndia #T20WorldCup pic.twitter.com/jIxsYeJkYW — BCCI (@BCCI) April 30, 2024 × Talking about the squad, Rinku Singh -- who averages a whopping 89 and strikes at 176.23 in 15 T20Is -- and KL Rahul are the two big names to miss out. Rinku has done incredibly well in the limited chances he has got for Team India in the shortest format. However, Shivam Dube, Hardik and Ravindra Jadeja got the nod ahead of him. Dube has been in top form, both for India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the past year and, hence, got rewarded. Meanwhile, Rahul was also in contention but missed out with Pant -- who made his return to competitive cricket during IPL 2024 -- and Samson edged past the former due to their form in the ongoing IPL season. Pant and Samson have been among runs in the 2024 edition, fourth and sixth-highest run-getter respectively, with a better strike-rate than Rahul. The regulars such as Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammed Siraj, etc., have been included in the squad while Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal have also been included in the team. India Squad for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashashvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Hardik Pandya (vc), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj. Reserves: Shubman Gill, Rinku Singh, Khaleel Ahmed, Avesh Khan

T20 World Cup 2024: India’s squad to be led by Rohit Sharma; Pant and Samson in, Rahul out

There will be no international return for former skipper Faf du Plessis after Cricket South Africa announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. With the deadline to announce the&nbsp;squad approaching, the&nbsp;Proteas squad saw&nbsp;the return of Anrich Nortje after nine months as Aiden Markram and Co. look to win their first T20 World Cup. The&nbsp;squad&nbsp;includes SA20 heroes Ryan Rickelton and Ottniel Baartman&nbsp; having&nbsp;impressed with bat and ball&nbsp;respectively. There was no place for Mumbai Indians’ speedster Kwena Maphaka in the squad.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is your T20 World Cup Proteas Men’s team South Africa! 🌟 Let's rally behind our squad as they aim to conquer the world stage and bring home the gold! 🏆💥 
 
Stay tuned for the out of this world performances! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OutOfThisWorld?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#OutOfThisWorld</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BePartOfIt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BePartOfIt</a> <a href="https://t.co/NVwYYsN7cH">pic.twitter.com/NVwYYsN7cH</a>
— Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ProteasMenCSA/status/1785220435073712497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Nortje returns for Proteas</h2>

Having missed out on the team in recent times due to injury, Nortje’s return will be a big boost for the side which also includes the likes of Kagiso Rabada and Gerald Coetzee. Nortje has been a big value addition to the Delhi Capitals side in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) season. Quinton de Kock will also feature for the Proteas in his last T20 World Cup for the nation. He had earlier announced his desire to retire from national duty after the tournament in the USA and the West Indies.&nbsp;

De Kock’s potential partner in the Playing XI will be Ryan Rickelton who impressed in the SA20 in South Africa. The middle order will consist of Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller and Tristan Stubbs with all starring for their respective sides in the IPL.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-not-phil-salt-varun-chakaravarthy-credits-mitchell-starc-and-co-for-kkrs-dominant-win-over-dc-716550">IPL 2024: Not Phil Salt, Varun Chakaravarthy credits Mitchell Starc and Co for KKR's dominant win over DC</a>

Interestingly, captain Temba Bavuma, Rilee Rossouw&nbsp;and&nbsp;Wayne Parnell have not found&nbsp;a spot in the squad though they have been part of the national team in recent times. Nandre Burger and Lungi Ngidi will travel to the USA and West Indies as reserves.&nbsp;

South Africa T20 World Cup squad:

Aiden Markram (capt), Ottniel Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs.

Travelling reserves:

Nandre Burger and Lungi Ngidi

There will be no international return for former skipper Faf du Plessis after Cricket South Africa announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

There will be no international return for former skipper Faf du Plessis after Cricket South Africa announced the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. With the deadline to announce the squad approaching, the Proteas squad saw the return of Anrich Nortje after nine months as Aiden Markram and Co. look to win their first T20 World Cup. The squad includes SA20 heroes Ryan Rickelton and Ottniel Baartman having impressed with bat and ball respectively. There was no place for Mumbai Indians’ speedster Kwena Maphaka in the squad. This is your T20 World Cup Proteas Men’s team South Africa! 🌟 Let's rally behind our squad as they aim to conquer the world stage and bring home the gold! 🏆💥 Stay tuned for the out of this world performances! #T20WorldCup #OutOfThisWorld #BePartOfIt pic.twitter.com/NVwYYsN7cH — Proteas Men (@ProteasMenCSA) April 30, 2024 × Nortje returns for Proteas Having missed out on the team in recent times due to injury, Nortje’s return will be a big boost for the side which also includes the likes of Kagiso Rabada and Gerald Coetzee. Nortje has been a big value addition to the Delhi Capitals side in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) season. Quinton de Kock will also feature for the Proteas in his last T20 World Cup for the nation. He had earlier announced his desire to retire from national duty after the tournament in the USA and the West Indies. De Kock’s potential partner in the Playing XI will be Ryan Rickelton who impressed in the SA20 in South Africa. The middle order will consist of Markram, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller and Tristan Stubbs with all starring for their respective sides in the IPL. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Not Phil Salt, Varun Chakaravarthy credits Mitchell Starc and Co for KKR's dominant win over DC Interestingly, captain Temba Bavuma, Rilee Rossouw and Wayne Parnell have not found a spot in the squad though they have been part of the national team in recent times. Nandre Burger and Lungi Ngidi will travel to the USA and West Indies as reserves. South Africa T20 World Cup squad: Aiden Markram (capt), Ottniel Baartman, Gerald Coetzee, Quinton de Kock, Bjorn Fortuin, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Keshav Maharaj, David Miller, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tabraiz Shamsi, Tristan Stubbs. Travelling reserves: Nandre Burger and Lungi Ngidi

T20 World Cup: No international return for Faf du Plessis, Anrich Nortje included in South Africa squad

The countdown for the T20 World Cup has already started as all participant teams look to make their mark on the tournament starting on June 1. Team India&nbsp;will be no stranger to the occasion as they will walk into the T20 World Cup as one of the favourites to win the title.&nbsp;With almost a month to go for the T20 World Cup, the anticipation&nbsp;surrounding the inclusion of&nbsp;Hardik Pandya has stolen the spotlight in the Indian cricket&nbsp;fraternity&nbsp;as reports suggest he could&nbsp;be dropped&nbsp;from the squad.&nbsp;

<h2>Why is Hardik Pandya at risk of being axed?&nbsp;</h2>

Not long ago, Hardik was someone who could not be easily dropped from the T20 squad owing to his impressive performance for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the last two seasons. Besides his on-field performance, it was his leadership ability that saw him being handed the vice-captaincy in the format.&nbsp;But now he sits on the brink of exit from the Indian side, with the likes of&nbsp;Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh waiting on the sidelines to replace him. &nbsp;

In nine IPL matches so&nbsp;far, Hardik has scored 197 runs, which includes&nbsp;10&nbsp;sixes, while averaging a mere 24.63. When compared to Shivam Mavi, Hardik is nowhere near the Chennai Super Kings finisher who has scored 350 runs in the same number of matches.&nbsp;Mavi has hit three fifties compared to Hardik’s none&nbsp;while averaging&nbsp;a massive 58.33.&nbsp;

When it comes to&nbsp;bowling, Hardik is nowhere close&nbsp;to his best and has scalped four wickets during the same time. His economy of 11.95 against opposition batters makes him more vulnerable. Considering he will be facing the same players in the international outfit in a month,&nbsp;this does not help him at all. While Mavi is not a specialist all-rounder, Hardik Pandya’s presence in the Playing XI doesn't benefit the Indian team in any way as he is no longer an asset with bat and ball.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-not-phil-salt-varun-chakaravarthy-credits-mitchell-starc-and-co-for-kkrs-dominant-win-over-dc-716550">IPL 2024: Not Phil Salt, Varun Chakaravarthy credits Mitchell Starc and Co for KKR's dominant win over DC</a>

<h2>Poor leadership in IPL 2024</h2>

Hardik’s poor performances in IPL 2024 have&nbsp;been rounded off&nbsp;by Mumbai Indians’ horrible show on the field. In his maiden season as captain of the MI side, Hardik’s side has won only three matches and lost three&nbsp;matches&nbsp;in a row at the start of the season. Considering the current scenario, the team management might be&nbsp;reluctant to rely on his services.&nbsp;

With Hardik no longer a reliable asset and the emergence of options like Shivam Mavi, Rinku Singh and Dinesh Karthik as pinch-hitters, it won’t be a surprise if Hardik&nbsp;is dropped&nbsp;from Team India.&nbsp;

The countdown for the T20 World Cup has already started as all participant teams look to make their mark on the tournament starting on June 1. Team India will be no stranger to the occasion as they will walk into the T20 World Cup as one of the favourites to win the title.

The countdown for the T20 World Cup has already started as all participant teams look to make their mark on the tournament starting on June 1. Team India will be no stranger to the occasion as they will walk into the T20 World Cup as one of the favourites to win the title. With almost a month to go for the T20 World Cup, the anticipation surrounding the inclusion of Hardik Pandya has stolen the spotlight in the Indian cricket fraternity as reports suggest he could be dropped from the squad. Why is Hardik Pandya at risk of being axed? Not long ago, Hardik was someone who could not be easily dropped from the T20 squad owing to his impressive performance for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the last two seasons. Besides his on-field performance, it was his leadership ability that saw him being handed the vice-captaincy in the format. But now he sits on the brink of exit from the Indian side, with the likes of Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh waiting on the sidelines to replace him. In nine IPL matches so far, Hardik has scored 197 runs, which includes 10 sixes, while averaging a mere 24.63. When compared to Shivam Mavi, Hardik is nowhere near the Chennai Super Kings finisher who has scored 350 runs in the same number of matches. Mavi has hit three fifties compared to Hardik’s none while averaging a massive 58.33. When it comes to bowling, Hardik is nowhere close to his best and has scalped four wickets during the same time. His economy of 11.95 against opposition batters makes him more vulnerable. Considering he will be facing the same players in the international outfit in a month, this does not help him at all. While Mavi is not a specialist all-rounder, Hardik Pandya’s presence in the Playing XI doesn't benefit the Indian team in any way as he is no longer an asset with bat and ball. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Not Phil Salt, Varun Chakaravarthy credits Mitchell Starc and Co for KKR's dominant win over DC Poor leadership in IPL 2024 Hardik’s poor performances in IPL 2024 have been rounded off by Mumbai Indians’ horrible show on the field. In his maiden season as captain of the MI side, Hardik’s side has won only three matches and lost three matches in a row at the start of the season. Considering the current scenario, the team management might be reluctant to rely on his services. With Hardik no longer a reliable asset and the emergence of options like Shivam Mavi, Rinku Singh and Dinesh Karthik as pinch-hitters, it won’t be a surprise if Hardik is dropped from Team India.

Decoding Hardik Pandya's IPL 2024 performance and why he might be dropped from T20 WC

The Indian men’s cricket team&nbsp;selection committee&nbsp;is set&nbsp;to announce the squad for the upcoming&nbsp;T20 World Cup as the suspense surrounding the&nbsp;squad&nbsp;will finally&nbsp;come to an&nbsp;end.&nbsp;The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will&nbsp;hold a meeting&nbsp;in Ahmedabad on Tuesday (April 30) to announce the 15-member squad set to be led by Rohit Sharma. Everyone’s eyes will be on the inclusion of Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli, with the former set to&nbsp;make his&nbsp;return to the Indian team.

<h2>Selection committee to lift the lid</h2>

Led by Ajit Agarkar, the selection committee has been&nbsp;keeping a close eye on&nbsp;all the players and their performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;However, according to reports,&nbsp;it is&nbsp;the merits of the players&nbsp;that&nbsp;will determine their position in the team rather than their performances in the IPL 2024.&nbsp;According to reports, the selection committee will welcome back Pant in the Indian team after more than 18 months&nbsp;having&nbsp;suffered a near-fatal car accident in December 2022.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-mens-t20-world-cup-2024-all-team-squad-india-nz-australia-england-pakistan-south-africa-west-indies-716322">ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024: Latest updates of all squads named so far</a>

Virat Kohli will be another name who has been in the spotlight but&nbsp;is expected&nbsp;to board the flight to the USA and the West Indies. Virat has played only three T20Is since&nbsp;the 2022 edition of the T20 World Cup and&nbsp;is currently in the running for the Orange Cap in IPL 2024. He also scored a hundred in the IPL 2024 against Rajasthan Royals. Suryakumar Yadav of Mumbai Indians is another name guaranteed to make the Indian squad&nbsp;having&nbsp;impressed in the 2022 edition in Australia.

In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;is guaranteed&nbsp;to be one of the pacers&nbsp;while&nbsp; Yuzvendra&nbsp;Chahal’s T20 form should see him make the squad. Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav will be India’s spin options&nbsp;which&nbsp;could likely keep Axar Patel out of the&nbsp;squad.

According to reports, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya&nbsp;are expected&nbsp;to sit out of the Indian team as they struggle for form and places in competition.

The Indian men’s cricket team selection committee is set to announce the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup as the suspense surrounding the squad will finally come to an end.

The Indian men’s cricket team selection committee is set to announce the squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup as the suspense surrounding the squad will finally come to an end. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will hold a meeting in Ahmedabad on Tuesday (April 30) to announce the 15-member squad set to be led by Rohit Sharma. Everyone’s eyes will be on the inclusion of Rishabh Pant and Virat Kohli, with the former set to make his return to the Indian team. Selection committee to lift the lid Led by Ajit Agarkar, the selection committee has been keeping a close eye on all the players and their performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). However, according to reports, it is the merits of the players that will determine their position in the team rather than their performances in the IPL 2024. According to reports, the selection committee will welcome back Pant in the Indian team after more than 18 months having suffered a near-fatal car accident in December 2022. ALSO READ | ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024: Latest updates of all squads named so far Virat Kohli will be another name who has been in the spotlight but is expected to board the flight to the USA and the West Indies. Virat has played only three T20Is since the 2022 edition of the T20 World Cup and is currently in the running for the Orange Cap in IPL 2024. He also scored a hundred in the IPL 2024 against Rajasthan Royals. Suryakumar Yadav of Mumbai Indians is another name guaranteed to make the Indian squad having impressed in the 2022 edition in Australia. In the bowling department, Jasprit Bumrah is guaranteed to be one of the pacers while Yuzvendra Chahal’s T20 form should see him make the squad. Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav will be India’s spin options which could likely keep Axar Patel out of the squad. According to reports, Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya are expected to sit out of the Indian team as they struggle for form and places in competition.

T20 World Cup: Ajit Agarkar-led selection committee to announce India squad on April 30; eyes on Pant, Kohli

The Indian men’s team selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar will have a tough decision in hand to choose the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Ahead of the team selection, one of the reports has suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering dropping Hardik Pandya from the Indian squad and instead naming Rishabh Pant as the&nbsp;vice-captain. India will try to end their 17-year wait for the T20 World Cup victory this year as Rohit Sharma and Co. aim to end their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy.

<h2>Pant instead of&nbsp;Pandya in T20 World Cup?</h2>

According to Cricbuzz, the selectors&nbsp;are strongly considering&nbsp;Pant as an alternative for Pandya in the deputy's role. While the selectors panel will not consider Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 as the performance matrix to choose the team, they still reckon that Pant will be a better choice to be Rohit’s deputy. Pandya’s performance&nbsp;in the IPL 2024 is also a&nbsp;major&nbsp;concern for the selectors as he struggled with the ball.

Bringing Pant into the Indian side will help team India resolve two issues&nbsp;including&nbsp;the&nbsp; wicketkeeper&nbsp;and pinch-hitter’s role.&nbsp;Alongside,&nbsp;Dinesh Karthik, Sanju Samson and KL Rahul, Pant is one of the prominent options to play as a wicketkeeper. If Pant does return to the Indian side, it will be his first match for the national side since December 2022, when he represented India against Bangladesh in the Test series.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-virat-kohli-hilariously-interrupts-shubman-gills-captaincy-during-rcbs-big-win-over-gt-watch-716171">IPL 2024: Virat Kohli hilariously interrupts Shubman Gill's captaincy during RCB's big win over GT - Watch</a>

Ahead of selection, the panel is also keeping tabs on other departments&nbsp;with&nbsp;players like Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj on the brink of getting dropped.&nbsp;While form is not an issue for them getting dropped,&nbsp;it is competition for places that&nbsp;could force Gill and Siraj to sit out.

For now,&nbsp;the likes of&nbsp;Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra&nbsp;Jadeja,&nbsp;remain the only names assured of a place in the team.

The Indian men’s team selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar will have a tough decision in hand to choose the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

The Indian men’s team selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar will have a tough decision in hand to choose the team for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. Ahead of the team selection, one of the reports has suggested that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is considering dropping Hardik Pandya from the Indian squad and instead naming Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain. India will try to end their 17-year wait for the T20 World Cup victory this year as Rohit Sharma and Co. aim to end their 11-year wait for an ICC trophy. Pant instead of Pandya in T20 World Cup? According to Cricbuzz, the selectors are strongly considering Pant as an alternative for Pandya in the deputy's role. While the selectors panel will not consider Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 as the performance matrix to choose the team, they still reckon that Pant will be a better choice to be Rohit’s deputy. Pandya’s performance in the IPL 2024 is also a major concern for the selectors as he struggled with the ball. Bringing Pant into the Indian side will help team India resolve two issues including the wicketkeeper and pinch-hitter’s role. Alongside, Dinesh Karthik, Sanju Samson and KL Rahul, Pant is one of the prominent options to play as a wicketkeeper. If Pant does return to the Indian side, it will be his first match for the national side since December 2022, when he represented India against Bangladesh in the Test series. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Virat Kohli hilariously interrupts Shubman Gill's captaincy during RCB's big win over GT - Watch Ahead of selection, the panel is also keeping tabs on other departments with players like Shubman Gill and Mohammed Siraj on the brink of getting dropped. While form is not an issue for them getting dropped, it is competition for places that could force Gill and Siraj to sit out. For now, the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah and Ravindra Jadeja, remain the only names assured of a place in the team.

T20 World Cup 2024: Rishabh Pant to be considered for vice-captaincy ahead of Hardik Pandya - Report

Former Indian cricketer,&nbsp;and BCCI chief selector, Kris Srikkanth believes Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star Rinku Singh will certainly be selected in India's final T20 World Cup squad. It is to be noted that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee are likely to announce the provisional squad on May 1, i.e. the deadline for all the participating teams. Ahead of the team announcement, Srikkanth lauded Rinku and said that he has proven himself in every opportunity presented and should 'get the visa' for West Indies and USA -- the co-hosts for the mega event in June.&nbsp;

<h2>'Rinku Singh is a certainty in my 15. His international record is amazing'</h2>

Rinku has had a great start to his T20I career, amassing 356 runs in 15 games at a blistering strike-rate of 176.23. Thus, Srikkanth said on Star&nbsp;Sports Press Room Show, "A classic example is Rinku Singh. Rinku Singh is a certainty in my 15. He hasn't got that many opportunities to bat in the IPL but you see his international track record, it's an amazing track record. Amazing track record in South Africa and with every opportunity he has got. So Rinku Singh has to be a certainty in the 15. But if we go by recent form or opportunities, he hasn't got enough opportunities."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wont-be-in-my-team-sehwag-on-ashwins-lack-of-wickets-says-rr-star-might-go-unsold-in-ipl-2025-auction-716226">'Won't be in my team': Sehwag on Ashwin's lack of wickets; says RR star might go unsold in IPL 2025 auction</a>

He further added, "End of the day you've to forget who the player is and look at what is his track record. Is he a great player, is a deadly player, is he fit? So Rinku Singh has to be a certainty, he has to get the Visa and he will fasten his seat belt to take the flight to the United States to play the game as one of the 15 members in the side."

At present, Rinku is involved in the IPL 2024 edition, playing for the two-time winners KKR. He hasn't had much opportunities with the bat and has&nbsp;112 runs in eight games at a strike&nbsp;rate of 157.75. Overall, he has&nbsp;837 runs in the IPL, in&nbsp;39 games, at an average of&nbsp;33.48 and strike-rate of&nbsp;144.06.

Shreyas Iyer-led KKR host the Delhi Capitals (DC) in match 47 of IPL 2024 on Monday evening (April 29), at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.&nbsp;

Former Indian cricketer, and BCCI chief selector, Kris Srikkanth believes Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star Rinku Singh will certainly be selected in India's final T20 World Cup squad.

Former Indian cricketer, and BCCI chief selector, Kris Srikkanth believes Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) star Rinku Singh will certainly be selected in India's final T20 World Cup squad. It is to be noted that the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee are likely to announce the provisional squad on May 1, i.e. the deadline for all the participating teams. Ahead of the team announcement, Srikkanth lauded Rinku and said that he has proven himself in every opportunity presented and should 'get the visa' for West Indies and USA -- the co-hosts for the mega event in June. 'Rinku Singh is a certainty in my 15. His international record is amazing' Rinku has had a great start to his T20I career, amassing 356 runs in 15 games at a blistering strike-rate of 176.23. Thus, Srikkanth said on Star Sports Press Room Show, "A classic example is Rinku Singh. Rinku Singh is a certainty in my 15. He hasn't got that many opportunities to bat in the IPL but you see his international track record, it's an amazing track record. Amazing track record in South Africa and with every opportunity he has got. So Rinku Singh has to be a certainty in the 15. But if we go by recent form or opportunities, he hasn't got enough opportunities." Also read: 'Won't be in my team': Sehwag on Ashwin's lack of wickets; says RR star might go unsold in IPL 2025 auction He further added, "End of the day you've to forget who the player is and look at what is his track record. Is he a great player, is a deadly player, is he fit? So Rinku Singh has to be a certainty, he has to get the Visa and he will fasten his seat belt to take the flight to the United States to play the game as one of the 15 members in the side." At present, Rinku is involved in the IPL 2024 edition, playing for the two-time winners KKR. He hasn't had much opportunities with the bat and has 112 runs in eight games at a strike rate of 157.75. Overall, he has 837 runs in the IPL, in 39 games, at an average of 33.48 and strike-rate of 144.06. Shreyas Iyer-led KKR host the Delhi Capitals (DC) in match 47 of IPL 2024 on Monday evening (April 29), at the Eden Gardens, Kolkata.

Rinku Singh is a certainty in India's final T20 World Cup squad, says former Indian chief selector

India’s Yuvraj Singh has been officially announced as the new ambassador for the upcoming&nbsp;T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. After the&nbsp;announcement was made official&nbsp;on Friday (April 26) the former World Cup winner said he felt&nbsp;honoured to be a part of the tournament.&nbsp;Yuvraj was part of&nbsp;the T20 World Cup team in 2007 in South Africa, when India&nbsp;won the trophy. He holds the&nbsp;distinction of winning three World Cups while playing for India&nbsp;- in 2000 U-19 and 2011 ODI World Cup.

<h2>Yuvraj named ambassador for the World Cup</h2>

"It's an honour to have Yuvraj as an ICC Men's T20 World Cup Ambassador. His name is synonymous with the T20 World Cup, owning one of the event's most iconic moments when he became the first player to hit six sixes in a T20 International. He joins Chris Gayle and Usain Bolt as the first ambassadors to&nbsp;be announced, who will each add to the excitement of&nbsp;what will be&nbsp;the biggest T20 World Cup ever,” Claire Furlong, ICC General Manager - Marketing &amp;&nbsp;Communications&nbsp;said.

"Some of my fondest cricketing memories have come from playing at the T20 World Cup, including hitting six sixes in an over, so it's&nbsp;very exciting&nbsp;to be part of this edition, which&nbsp;is set&nbsp;to be the biggest one yet,” Yuvraj Singh said after being announced as ambassador of the tournament.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-indian-cricket-team-coach-rahul-dravid-waits-in-queue-to-cast-vote-watch-715331">Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Indian cricket team coach Rahul Dravid waits in queue to cast vote - WATCH</a>

<h2>Expanded format in T20 World Cup</h2>

The T20 World Cup will be a special tournament&nbsp;considering&nbsp;20 teams will participate&nbsp;this time&nbsp;along with debutants Uganda, USA and Canada.&nbsp;It will be the first time that the USA will co-host a&nbsp;cricket World Cup at the senior level.&nbsp;The expanded format will see the return of West Indies&nbsp;who&nbsp;missed out on the ODI World Cup last year.

The tournament will kick off on June 1, 2024 with the USA playing Canada at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas. India’s first match will take place on June 5 when they play Ireland in New York, with the&nbsp;biggest&nbsp;game against Pakistan&nbsp;taking place&nbsp;on June 9.

India’s Yuvraj Singh has been officially announced as the new ambassador for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. After the announcement was made official on Friday (April 26) the former World Cup winner said he felt honoured to be a part of the tournament.

India’s Yuvraj Singh has been officially announced as the new ambassador for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. After the announcement was made official on Friday (April 26) the former World Cup winner said he felt honoured to be a part of the tournament. Yuvraj was part of the T20 World Cup team in 2007 in South Africa, when India won the trophy. He holds the distinction of winning three World Cups while playing for India - in 2000 U-19 and 2011 ODI World Cup. Yuvraj named ambassador for the World Cup "It's an honour to have Yuvraj as an ICC Men's T20 World Cup Ambassador. His name is synonymous with the T20 World Cup, owning one of the event's most iconic moments when he became the first player to hit six sixes in a T20 International. He joins Chris Gayle and Usain Bolt as the first ambassadors to be announced, who will each add to the excitement of what will be the biggest T20 World Cup ever,” Claire Furlong, ICC General Manager - Marketing & Communications said. "Some of my fondest cricketing memories have come from playing at the T20 World Cup, including hitting six sixes in an over, so it's very exciting to be part of this edition, which is set to be the biggest one yet,” Yuvraj Singh said after being announced as ambassador of the tournament. ALSO READ | Lok Sabha Elections 2024: Indian cricket team coach Rahul Dravid waits in queue to cast vote - WATCH Expanded format in T20 World Cup The T20 World Cup will be a special tournament considering 20 teams will participate this time along with debutants Uganda, USA and Canada. It will be the first time that the USA will co-host a cricket World Cup at the senior level. The expanded format will see the return of West Indies who missed out on the ODI World Cup last year. The tournament will kick off on June 1, 2024 with the USA playing Canada at the Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas. India’s first match will take place on June 5 when they play Ireland in New York, with the biggest game against Pakistan taking place on June 9.

T20 World Cup 2024: India's Yuvraj Singh named ambassador for marquee event in USA, West Indies

India's legendary batter Krishnamachari Srikkanth has backed the star duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to open for the national side in the upcoming T20 World Cup as he reckons they are best suited for the role.&nbsp;With the Indian team for the T20 World Cup&nbsp;set to&nbsp;be&nbsp; announced&nbsp;anytime, it will be interesting whether Virat-Rohit will open for India even as&nbsp;there are question marks&nbsp;on&nbsp;the selection of a few players&nbsp;including&nbsp;Rishabh Pant and Abhishek Sharma.

<h2>Srikkanth backs Virat-Rohit to open</h2>

“Yashasvi Jaiswal was a strong contender in my team, but as of now, it’s going to be Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma who will open the innings for me in the T20 World Cup. Because I will have to look at the balance, who’s going to come at No. 3, who’s going to bat at No. 4, what is the impact you want to create, you need to take all those things into account,” Shrikant said while speaking to Star Sports.

With little over a month to go for the start of the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies, the selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar&nbsp;is likely&nbsp;to&nbsp;announce the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup&nbsp;in the next few days. The selection panel is keeping a close eye on a few players with a prospect of them travelling with the national side.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/premier-league-it-is-abuse-manchester-uniteds-rashford-hits-out-at-criticism-715347">Premier League: 'It is abuse,' Manchester United's Rashford hits out at criticism</a>

The likes of&nbsp;Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah&nbsp;are expected&nbsp;to be the untouchables in the side, with them guaranteed to&nbsp;travel if they don’t pick any injury.&nbsp;The likes of&nbsp;Rinku Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul will also be hoping to get the nod in the squad if they perform well in the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season.

The&nbsp;interesting&nbsp;choice in the side remains the selection of Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik, with the former already set for a place in the side.&nbsp;Karthik’s selection will be an interesting&nbsp; one&nbsp;considering&nbsp;he is in top form for struggling Royal Challengers Bengaluru and could&nbsp;be given&nbsp;a wildcard entry into the side.

India's legendary batter Krishnamachari Srikkanth has backed the star duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to open for the national side in the upcoming T20 World Cup as he reckons they are best suited for the role.

India's legendary batter Krishnamachari Srikkanth has backed the star duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to open for the national side in the upcoming T20 World Cup as he reckons they are best suited for the role. With the Indian team for the T20 World Cup set to be announced anytime, it will be interesting whether Virat-Rohit will open for India even as there are question marks on the selection of a few players including Rishabh Pant and Abhishek Sharma. Srikkanth backs Virat-Rohit to open “Yashasvi Jaiswal was a strong contender in my team, but as of now, it’s going to be Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma who will open the innings for me in the T20 World Cup. Because I will have to look at the balance, who’s going to come at No. 3, who’s going to bat at No. 4, what is the impact you want to create, you need to take all those things into account,” Shrikant said while speaking to Star Sports. With little over a month to go for the start of the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies, the selection panel led by Ajit Agarkar is likely to announce the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup in the next few days. The selection panel is keeping a close eye on a few players with a prospect of them travelling with the national side. ALSO READ | Premier League: 'It is abuse,' Manchester United's Rashford hits out at criticism The likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, Shubman Gill and Jasprit Bumrah are expected to be the untouchables in the side, with them guaranteed to travel if they don’t pick any injury. The likes of Rinku Singh, Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul will also be hoping to get the nod in the squad if they perform well in the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. The interesting choice in the side remains the selection of Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik, with the former already set for a place in the side. Karthik’s selection will be an interesting one considering he is in top form for struggling Royal Challengers Bengaluru and could be given a wildcard entry into the side.

T20 World Cup 2024: Legendary batter backs Virat-Rohit to open for Team India

Delhi Capitals (DC) edged past Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in match 40 of the IPL 2024 edition on Wednesday (April 24), at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Opting to bowl first, Shubman Gill-led GT were at the receiving end as Rishabh Pant top-scored with a brilliant 88* along with Axar Patel's 43-ball 66. In reply, Gujarat fought hard -- courtesy of Wriddhiman Saha's 39, Sai Sudharsan's 65, David Miller's 55 and Rashid Khan's 21* -- but ended with 220/8. During the high-scoring affair, Kuldeep Yadav once again made a mark with 2 for 29. Even in DC's last game, where Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) posted 266/7 in the national capital, the wily spinner&nbsp;claimed four scalps.

As a result, Kuldeep is among the leading wicket-takers with 12 wickets from six games. He is fourth in the list of most wickets in the ongoing edition, at an economy rate of 7.62. Thus, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels that the wrist spinner is now a certainty in India's T20 World Cup squad, which is set to be announced soon. The mega event kicks off in West Indies and USA in June.

Manjrekar feels Kuldeep is comfortable with taking up the responsibility in bowling the tough overs and providing key breakthroughs. Thus, he should be the second&nbsp;spinner after Ravindra Jadeja in India's T20 WC squad.&nbsp;

Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Manjrekar said, "Yes. And this is perhaps Kuldeep Yadav at his peak with regards to his skills, his confidence. You can see now he's out there like a Bumrah or Chahal at his peak. He is commanding that kind of respect. He looks comfortable with the responsibility and champions, you know, those breaks and those moments that you are seeking at the right time."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dc-vs-gt-after-a-brilliant-88-t20-wc-contender-rishabh-pant-says-he-is-relishing-every-hour-on-field-714717">DC vs GT: After a brilliant 88*, T20 WC contender Rishabh Pant says he is relishing 'every hour on field'</a>

"Last over today (against GT), DC wanted a wicket. They got the wicket of Tewtia there (in the 16th over) and just seized the game. So this is where Kuldeep has now become a champion bowler and he is somebody I mean that we should pencil down. Ravindra Jadeja will come in as a left-arm spinner batter and Kuldeep the second spinner," Manjrekar added.

Kuldeep-starrer DC have moved to the sixth spot with eight&nbsp;points from nine games. They will now lock horns with five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) at their home ground&nbsp;on Saturday (April 27).

&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals (DC) edged past Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in match 40 of the IPL 2024 edition on Wednesday (April 24), at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

Delhi Capitals (DC) edged past Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in match 40 of the IPL 2024 edition on Wednesday (April 24), at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Opting to bowl first, Shubman Gill-led GT were at the receiving end as Rishabh Pant top-scored with a brilliant 88* along with Axar Patel's 43-ball 66. In reply, Gujarat fought hard -- courtesy of Wriddhiman Saha's 39, Sai Sudharsan's 65, David Miller's 55 and Rashid Khan's 21* -- but ended with 220/8. During the high-scoring affair, Kuldeep Yadav once again made a mark with 2 for 29. Even in DC's last game, where Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) posted 266/7 in the national capital, the wily spinner claimed four scalps. As a result, Kuldeep is among the leading wicket-takers with 12 wickets from six games. He is fourth in the list of most wickets in the ongoing edition, at an economy rate of 7.62. Thus, former Indian cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar feels that the wrist spinner is now a certainty in India's T20 World Cup squad, which is set to be announced soon. The mega event kicks off in West Indies and USA in June. Manjrekar feels Kuldeep is comfortable with taking up the responsibility in bowling the tough overs and providing key breakthroughs. Thus, he should be the second spinner after Ravindra Jadeja in India's T20 WC squad. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Manjrekar said, "Yes. And this is perhaps Kuldeep Yadav at his peak with regards to his skills, his confidence. You can see now he's out there like a Bumrah or Chahal at his peak. He is commanding that kind of respect. He looks comfortable with the responsibility and champions, you know, those breaks and those moments that you are seeking at the right time." Also read: DC vs GT: After a brilliant 88*, T20 WC contender Rishabh Pant says he is relishing 'every hour on field' "Last over today (against GT), DC wanted a wicket. They got the wicket of Tewtia there (in the 16th over) and just seized the game. So this is where Kuldeep has now become a champion bowler and he is somebody I mean that we should pencil down. Ravindra Jadeja will come in as a left-arm spinner batter and Kuldeep the second spinner," Manjrekar added. Kuldeep-starrer DC have moved to the sixth spot with eight points from nine games. They will now lock horns with five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) at their home ground on Saturday (April 27).

DC vs GT: 'Champion' Kuldeep Yadav a certainty for T20 World Cup - Former player Manjrekar's BOLD claim

Rishabh Pant-starrer Delhi Capitals (DC) edged past Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in a high-scoring thriller in match 40 of IPL 2024 on Wednesday (April 24). Playing at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, GT opted to bowl first and conceded 224/4 thanks to DC captain Rishabh Pant scoring a splendid 43-ball 88*,&nbsp;along with Axar Patel's 66 (43).&nbsp;

In reply, GT were in the hunt courtesy of Wriddhiman Saha's 39, Sai Sudharsan's 65 and David Miller's 55 before Rashid Khan's unbeaten 21 almost led them to an improbable win. The one-time winners managed 220/8 as Pant was adjudged the Player-of-Match for his third fifty of the season (where he also smacked Mohit Sharma for 4 sixes&nbsp;in an over). The Delhi captain also pulled off two key dismissals behind the stumps.

Given that Pant has returned to competitive cricket after 14 months, after his horrific car crash in late 2022, the DC star player has been among runs and is now a strong contender for a berth in the T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June.

Pant has 342 runs in nine&nbsp;games, third-most overall in the list of most runs in IPL 2024, and is leading the race for the wicketkeeper-batter's slot. After his knock, the southpaw&nbsp;reflected on being on the field post a lengthy gap.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-heartbreak-for-gujarat-as-delhi-clinch-thriller-at-home-by-4-runs-714663">IPL 2024: Heartbreak for Gujarat as Delhi clinch thriller at home by 4 runs</a>

<h2>'The first six in the match gives me confidence in a game'</h2>

At the post-match presentations, Pant said, "Surely at 43/3, we wanted to just keep going and target their main spinners. If we get something, we will take it on and keep rotating the strike. Every day that I'm in the middle, I feel better. Every hour on the field matters, I love being on the field. I try to give it my 100% and it takes some time sometimes. I think the first six in the match gives me the confidence in a game. The more time I spend in the centre, the better I feel."

DC have now moved to the sixth spot with a narrow win over GT, completing a double over them as well in the ongoing edition. They will next host the Mumbai Indians (MI) on Saturday (April 27) at the same venue and would hope to add two more points to their kitty.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant-starrer Delhi Capitals (DC) edged past Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in a high-scoring thriller in match 40 of IPL 2024 on Wednesday (April 24). Playing at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, GT opted to bowl first and conceded 224/4 thanks to DC captain Rishabh Pant scoring a splendid 43-ball 88*, along with Axar Patel's 66 (43).

Rishabh Pant-starrer Delhi Capitals (DC) edged past Gujarat Titans (GT) by four runs in a high-scoring thriller in match 40 of IPL 2024 on Wednesday (April 24). Playing at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi, GT opted to bowl first and conceded 224/4 thanks to DC captain Rishabh Pant scoring a splendid 43-ball 88*, along with Axar Patel's 66 (43). In reply, GT were in the hunt courtesy of Wriddhiman Saha's 39, Sai Sudharsan's 65 and David Miller's 55 before Rashid Khan's unbeaten 21 almost led them to an improbable win. The one-time winners managed 220/8 as Pant was adjudged the Player-of-Match for his third fifty of the season (where he also smacked Mohit Sharma for 4 sixes in an over). The Delhi captain also pulled off two key dismissals behind the stumps. Given that Pant has returned to competitive cricket after 14 months, after his horrific car crash in late 2022, the DC star player has been among runs and is now a strong contender for a berth in the T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Pant has 342 runs in nine games, third-most overall in the list of most runs in IPL 2024, and is leading the race for the wicketkeeper-batter's slot. After his knock, the southpaw reflected on being on the field post a lengthy gap. Also read: IPL 2024: Heartbreak for Gujarat as Delhi clinch thriller at home by 4 runs 'The first six in the match gives me confidence in a game' At the post-match presentations, Pant said, "Surely at 43/3, we wanted to just keep going and target their main spinners. If we get something, we will take it on and keep rotating the strike. Every day that I'm in the middle, I feel better. Every hour on the field matters, I love being on the field. I try to give it my 100% and it takes some time sometimes. I think the first six in the match gives me the confidence in a game. The more time I spend in the centre, the better I feel." DC have now moved to the sixth spot with a narrow win over GT, completing a double over them as well in the ongoing edition. They will next host the Mumbai Indians (MI) on Saturday (April 27) at the same venue and would hope to add two more points to their kitty.

DC vs GT: After a brilliant 88*, T20 WC contender Rishabh Pant says he is relishing 'every hour on field'

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared his playing XI for India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is set to pick India's T20 WC squad by end of this month or&nbsp;by May 1 (which is the cut-off date for all participating teams) as the mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, on June 1 in West Indies and USA. Sehwag picked his playing XI, with some glaring omissions.

Speaking on Club Praire Podcast alongside former Aussie cricketer Adam Gilchrist, Sehwag's playing XI didn't comprise Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson. The legendary Indian opener opted between Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh as the lower middle order batter whereas also snubbed Arshdeep Singh. Instead of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer, the ex-Indian opener picked Sandeep Sharma -- who has been in fine form for Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. In match 38, on Monday (April 22), Sandeep starred in RR's nine-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI), in Jaipur, courtesy of a brilliant 5 for 18.&nbsp;

Virender Sehwag's Playing XI for T20 World Cup

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Rinku Singh or Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Sandeep Sharma.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-we-needed-to-be-braver-lsg-captain-rahul-explains-reason-behind-promoting-stoinis-vs-csk-714538">IPL 2024: 'We needed to be braver' - LSG captain Rahul explains reason behind promoting Stoinis vs CSK</a>

Speaking on Hardik, Sehwag mentioned that the star all-rounder will make it to India's final squad, however, opted against including him in the final XI due to his poor run in IPL 2024. Hardik has been unimpressive as a leader, for MI, and not created much impact with both bat and ball. Further, Sehwag's spin bowling unit comprised Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja with no room for Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal. Both have been impressive in IPL 2024.

As per reports, India's T20 WC squad is expected to be announced around April 28.&nbsp;

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared his playing XI for India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is set to pick India's T20 WC squad by end of this month or by May 1 (which is the cut-off date for all participating teams) as the mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, on June 1 in West Indies and USA.

Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag shared his playing XI for India for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee is set to pick India's T20 WC squad by end of this month or by May 1 (which is the cut-off date for all participating teams) as the mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, on June 1 in West Indies and USA. Sehwag picked his playing XI, with some glaring omissions. Speaking on Club Praire Podcast alongside former Aussie cricketer Adam Gilchrist, Sehwag's playing XI didn't comprise Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson. The legendary Indian opener opted between Shivam Dube or Rinku Singh as the lower middle order batter whereas also snubbed Arshdeep Singh. Instead of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) pacer, the ex-Indian opener picked Sandeep Sharma -- who has been in fine form for Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the ongoing IPL 2024 edition. In match 38, on Monday (April 22), Sandeep starred in RR's nine-wicket win over Mumbai Indians (MI), in Jaipur, courtesy of a brilliant 5 for 18. Virender Sehwag's Playing XI for T20 World Cup Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Rinku Singh or Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Sandeep Sharma. Also read: IPL 2024: 'We needed to be braver' - LSG captain Rahul explains reason behind promoting Stoinis vs CSK Speaking on Hardik, Sehwag mentioned that the star all-rounder will make it to India's final squad, however, opted against including him in the final XI due to his poor run in IPL 2024. Hardik has been unimpressive as a leader, for MI, and not created much impact with both bat and ball. Further, Sehwag's spin bowling unit comprised Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja with no room for Axar Patel and Yuzvendra Chahal. Both have been impressive in IPL 2024. As per reports, India's T20 WC squad is expected to be announced around April 28.

T20 World Cup: No Hardik Pandya and Sanju Samson as Virender Sehwag names his playing XI for India

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ambati Rayudu feels Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya are not competing for the same spot in the T20 World Cup. India's T20 WC squad is set to be announced soon and all eyes are on the all-rounder's department. It remains to be seen if India opt for Dube, who was been in good form both in national colours and for CSK, or if Hardik will make a national comeback since the 2023 ODI World Cup.

While many former cricketers and experts feel that only one among Dube and Hardik will make it to India's squad, Rayudu feels they aren't competing with each other for a slot. Talking about Dube, the left-hander scored a brisk 27-ball 66 for CSK in their match against&nbsp;Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) which the former lost by&nbsp;six wickets&nbsp;after putting a mammoth&nbsp;210/4 on the board,&nbsp;courtesy of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad's 108*, in match 39 of IPL 2024 on Tuesday (April 23). Dube has so far amassed 311 runs, with three fifties, in eight games at a strike-rate of 169.94. Meanwhile, Hardik has struggled to make an impact with bat and ball -- claiming only four wickets and looking mostly rusty with the bat (scoring 151 runs at 21.57 and a strike rate of 142.45.&nbsp;

Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Rayudu explained how Dube plays an entirely different role to that of Hardik in India colours.&nbsp;

<h2>'I feel Hardik and Jadeja have the finisher's role in the Indian team'</h2>

He stated, "Both of them are not competing for the same spot. Hardik and Jadeja are finishers in the Indian team, and Dube is the kind of batter who comes in at No. 4 or 5. When the spinners are operating and conditions are slow, he can hit boundaries and accelerate to change the game. But between overs 16 and 20, Dube's strike rate isn't that high, he fails to hit that many runs. So I feel Hardik and Jadeja have that role in the Indian team."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-still-hurts-me-dc-spinner-kuldeep-yadav-rues-lack-of-experience-while-recalling-his-kkr-days-714464">IPL 2024: 'Still hurts me' - DC spinner Kuldeep Yadav rues lack of experience while recalling his KKR days</a>

At present, Dube looks like a certainty in India's T20 WC squad whereas questions are being raised on Hardik given the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain's struggle&nbsp;with both bat and ball and as a leader in the ongoing IPL season.&nbsp;

Talking about the CSK-LSG match, Chennai were asked to bat first and soon reduced to 49-2 before Gaikwad-Dube's 104-run fourth-wicket stand bailed them out and took the team score to 210-4. In reply, Lucknow won the high-scoring thriller owing to Marcus Stoinis' splendid 124 not out, laced with 13 fours and 6 sixes at 196.83.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ambati Rayudu feels Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya are not competing for the same spot in the T20 World Cup. India's T20 WC squad is set to be announced soon and all eyes are on the all-rounder's department.

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batter Ambati Rayudu feels Shivam Dube and Hardik Pandya are not competing for the same spot in the T20 World Cup. India's T20 WC squad is set to be announced soon and all eyes are on the all-rounder's department. It remains to be seen if India opt for Dube, who was been in good form both in national colours and for CSK, or if Hardik will make a national comeback since the 2023 ODI World Cup. While many former cricketers and experts feel that only one among Dube and Hardik will make it to India's squad, Rayudu feels they aren't competing with each other for a slot. Talking about Dube, the left-hander scored a brisk 27-ball 66 for CSK in their match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) which the former lost by six wickets after putting a mammoth 210/4 on the board, courtesy of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad's 108*, in match 39 of IPL 2024 on Tuesday (April 23). Dube has so far amassed 311 runs, with three fifties, in eight games at a strike-rate of 169.94. Meanwhile, Hardik has struggled to make an impact with bat and ball -- claiming only four wickets and looking mostly rusty with the bat (scoring 151 runs at 21.57 and a strike rate of 142.45. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Rayudu explained how Dube plays an entirely different role to that of Hardik in India colours. 'I feel Hardik and Jadeja have the finisher's role in the Indian team' He stated, "Both of them are not competing for the same spot. Hardik and Jadeja are finishers in the Indian team, and Dube is the kind of batter who comes in at No. 4 or 5. When the spinners are operating and conditions are slow, he can hit boundaries and accelerate to change the game. But between overs 16 and 20, Dube's strike rate isn't that high, he fails to hit that many runs. So I feel Hardik and Jadeja have that role in the Indian team." Also read: IPL 2024: 'Still hurts me' - DC spinner Kuldeep Yadav rues lack of experience while recalling his KKR days At present, Dube looks like a certainty in India's T20 WC squad whereas questions are being raised on Hardik given the Mumbai Indians (MI) captain's struggle with both bat and ball and as a leader in the ongoing IPL season. Talking about the CSK-LSG match, Chennai were asked to bat first and soon reduced to 49-2 before Gaikwad-Dube's 104-run fourth-wicket stand bailed them out and took the team score to 210-4. In reply, Lucknow won the high-scoring thriller owing to Marcus Stoinis' splendid 124 not out, laced with 13 fours and 6 sixes at 196.83.

IPL 2024: CSK star explains why Dube and Hardik are not fighting for the same spot in T20 World Cup

After Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets, in chase of 180, during match 38 of IPL 2024, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh lavished huge praise on Sanju Samson and feels he should be part of India's 2024 T20 World Cup squad. The squad is set to be announced by the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee by end of this month. The mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, in West Indies and USA on June 1. Further, Harbhajan also made a bold claim, stating that Samson should be groomed as India's next T20I captain.&nbsp;

Harbhajan took to X, formely Twitter, and wrote, “Yashasvi Jaiswal’s knock is a proof of class is permanent. Form is temporary @ybj_19 and there shouldn’t be any debate about Keeper batsman. @IamSanjuSamson should walk in to the Indian team for T20 world cup and also groomed as a next T20 captain for India after Rohit . koi shak??? (any doubts)."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s knock is a proof of class is permanent . Form is temporary <a href="https://twitter.com/ybj_19?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ybj_19</a> and there shouldn’t be any debate about Keepar batsman . <a href="https://twitter.com/IamSanjuSamson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IamSanjuSamson</a> should walks in to the Indian team for T20 worldcup and also groomed as a next T20 captain for india after rohit . koi…
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/1782478603248337359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-poor-captaincy-from-hardik-pandya-will-cost-mi-playoffs-spot-feels-former-indian-batter-714217">IPL 2024: Poor captaincy from Hardik Pandya will cost MI playoffs spot, feels former Indian batter</a>

Riding on Sandeep Sharma's 5 for 18 and Yashasvi Jaiswal's 104 not out, RR beat MI by nine wickets at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on Monday evening (April 22). While rain also made its presence felt in the game, it couldn't hamper RR's dominance as the one-time winners continue to march ahead in IPL 2024. After eight games, the table-toppers have won seven and are sitting at the top with 14 points. Speaking of Samson, the wicketkeeper-batter has led with aplomb, ably rotating his bowlers and making good field changes, whereas he is also the second-highest run-getter of the ongoing season, with 314 runs at an average of 62.80 and a strike-rate of 152.42 -- including&nbsp;3 fifties with a top score of 82*.

Courtesy of his form, Samson is a strong contender for the T20 WC. As far as India's T20I leadership, the 29-year-old is certainly showing all the signs to become the captain but has a long way to go before becoming a strong candidate. As of now, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill are also some names being considered as&nbsp;India's next captain in white-ball format.

After Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets, in chase of 180, during match 38 of IPL 2024, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh lavished huge praise on Sanju Samson and feels he should be part of India's 2024 T20 World Cup squad.

After Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets, in chase of 180, during match 38 of IPL 2024, former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh lavished huge praise on Sanju Samson and feels he should be part of India's 2024 T20 World Cup squad. The squad is set to be announced by the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee by end of this month. The mega event kicks off soon after IPL 2024, in West Indies and USA on June 1. Further, Harbhajan also made a bold claim, stating that Samson should be groomed as India's next T20I captain. Harbhajan took to X, formely Twitter, and wrote, “Yashasvi Jaiswal’s knock is a proof of class is permanent. Form is temporary @ybj_19 and there shouldn’t be any debate about Keeper batsman. @IamSanjuSamson should walk in to the Indian team for T20 world cup and also groomed as a next T20 captain for India after Rohit . koi shak??? (any doubts)." Yashasvi Jaiswal’s knock is a proof of class is permanent . Form is temporary @ybj_19 and there shouldn’t be any debate about Keepar batsman . @IamSanjuSamson should walks in to the Indian team for T20 worldcup and also groomed as a next T20 captain for india after rohit . koi… — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) April 22, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: Poor captaincy from Hardik Pandya will cost MI playoffs spot, feels former Indian batter Riding on Sandeep Sharma's 5 for 18 and Yashasvi Jaiswal's 104 not out, RR beat MI by nine wickets at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on Monday evening (April 22). While rain also made its presence felt in the game, it couldn't hamper RR's dominance as the one-time winners continue to march ahead in IPL 2024. After eight games, the table-toppers have won seven and are sitting at the top with 14 points. Speaking of Samson, the wicketkeeper-batter has led with aplomb, ably rotating his bowlers and making good field changes, whereas he is also the second-highest run-getter of the ongoing season, with 314 runs at an average of 62.80 and a strike-rate of 152.42 -- including 3 fifties with a top score of 82*. Courtesy of his form, Samson is a strong contender for the T20 WC. As far as India's T20I leadership, the 29-year-old is certainly showing all the signs to become the captain but has a long way to go before becoming a strong candidate. As of now, KL Rahul, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill are also some names being considered as India's next captain in white-ball format.

IPL 2024: Not Rahul or Hardik! Harbhajan Singh feels Sanju Samson should be India's next T20I captain

Match 38 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the one-time winners Rajasthan Royals (RR) continue their dominating run by beating Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets in pursuit of 180 at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on Monday (April 22). While rain also made its presence felt, the match was hardly affected by it as table-toppers Rajasthan earned their seventh win of the season, in eight games, courtesy of Sandeep Sharma's 5 for 18 and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal 104 not out. After the match, Jaiswal thanked senior Indian players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

Jaiswal didn't have a great start to IPL 2024, with a best of 39 before he finally returned to form versus Hardik Pandya-led Mumbai. Thus, he thanked&nbsp;Rohit and Kohli for their words of wisdom during his lean phase, while also acknowledging the support of RR captain Samson and coach Kumar Sangakkara.&nbsp;

<h2>'I want to thank all my seniors Virat bhaiya and Rohit bhaiya and especially Sanga sir and Samson'</h2>

In an interview with the IPL website, Jaiswal said, "It's incredible and I am enjoying it. Initially, it was tough for me but that's how cricket is. I guess you have to go through ups and downs and learn. I want to thank all my seniors Virat bhaiya and Rohit bhaiya and especially Sanga sir and Sanju bhai, the way they have been talking to me. It's incredible to go through these phases and still enjoy the game."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2024-sunil-gavaskar-grills-rajasthan-royals-batter-yashasvi-jaiswal-on-scoring-hundred-vs-mi-heres-why-714174">IPL 2024: Sunil Gavaskar GRILLS Rajasthan Royals batter Yashasvi Jaiswal on scoring hundred vs MI | Here's Why</a>

He further added, "It is important the effort that I have been putting in my practice sessions. In my mind I want to play with good intent and help my team."

Talking about Jaiswal, he looked more composed in the middle and didn't hurry himself after getting his eye in. As a result, he ended with 9 fours and 7 sixes at a strike-rate of 173.33. With T20 World Cup selection around the corner, the youngster will be relieved on&nbsp;getting back to form.&nbsp;

RR continue to occupy the top spot in the points table, with 14 points from eight encounters. They will next face the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Lucknow on Saturday (April 27).&nbsp;

Match 38 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the one-time winners Rajasthan Royals (RR) continue their dominating run by beating Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets in pursuit of 180 at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on Monday (April 22).

Match 38 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the one-time winners Rajasthan Royals (RR) continue their dominating run by beating Mumbai Indians (MI) by nine wickets in pursuit of 180 at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium, Jaipur on Monday (April 22). While rain also made its presence felt, the match was hardly affected by it as table-toppers Rajasthan earned their seventh win of the season, in eight games, courtesy of Sandeep Sharma's 5 for 18 and opener Yashasvi Jaiswal 104 not out. After the match, Jaiswal thanked senior Indian players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Jaiswal didn't have a great start to IPL 2024, with a best of 39 before he finally returned to form versus Hardik Pandya-led Mumbai. Thus, he thanked Rohit and Kohli for their words of wisdom during his lean phase, while also acknowledging the support of RR captain Samson and coach Kumar Sangakkara. 'I want to thank all my seniors Virat bhaiya and Rohit bhaiya and especially Sanga sir and Samson' In an interview with the IPL website, Jaiswal said, "It's incredible and I am enjoying it. Initially, it was tough for me but that's how cricket is. I guess you have to go through ups and downs and learn. I want to thank all my seniors Virat bhaiya and Rohit bhaiya and especially Sanga sir and Sanju bhai, the way they have been talking to me. It's incredible to go through these phases and still enjoy the game." Also read: IPL 2024: Sunil Gavaskar GRILLS Rajasthan Royals batter Yashasvi Jaiswal on scoring hundred vs MI | Here's Why He further added, "It is important the effort that I have been putting in my practice sessions. In my mind I want to play with good intent and help my team." Talking about Jaiswal, he looked more composed in the middle and didn't hurry himself after getting his eye in. As a result, he ended with 9 fours and 7 sixes at a strike-rate of 173.33. With T20 World Cup selection around the corner, the youngster will be relieved on getting back to form. RR continue to occupy the top spot in the points table, with 14 points from eight encounters. They will next face the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Lucknow on Saturday (April 27).

IPL 2024: Jaiswal thanks Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli after roaring back to form with 104* in RR vs MI tie

It will be an interesting next few days for Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant as he contemplates his international return ahead of the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies in June. Former Australia captain and Delhi Capitals’ coach Ricky Ponting has backed Pant to make the India squad for the T20 World Cup. Speaking exclusively to WION, Ponting backed Pant ahead of Sanju Samson and Dinesh Karthik, who have been in great form for their Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises.

<h2>Ponting backs Pant’s selection for World Cup</h2>

“No doubt that Pant should make India T20 World Cup squad. Great to see him back and he is playing well. He is too dynamic of a player to not make the India squad,” Ponting said in an exclusive chat with WION’s Nikhil Mathur on Monday.

Pant has so far endured a mixed return to the IPL after being&nbsp;injured in a near-fatal car accident in December 2022. He returned to the IPL with DC this season and has so far scored 254 runs in eight matches at the IPL. He now faces tough competition to be back in the Indian team as multiple players fight for a place.

KL Rahul and Sanju Samson are in the pole position to make the T20 World Cup squad, while Ishan Kishan (despite contract issues)&nbsp;and Dinesh Karthik are also in the fray&nbsp;to make the Indian team for the T20 World Cup.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-sourav-ganguly-ricky-ponting-back-rishabh-pant-to-play-2024-t20-world-cup-713965">IPL 2024: Sourav Ganguly, Ricky Ponting back Rishabh Pant to play 2024 T20 World Cup</a>

<h2>Ponting on DC’s playoff chances</h2>

Ponting also spoke on the team’s chances of reaching the playoffs of the IPL 2024, conceding they will have to win every game remaining. DC have so far won three matches and lost five, which sees them languish at the 8th spot in the IPL 2024 standings.

“Every game is a must-win from now on. Our best is good enough but we haven't been good across the 40 overs. We were a bit jinxed at the beginning of the season. Harry Brook didn't turn up, marsh got injured. Mukesh and Kuldeep missed a few games. No excuses now,” added the DC coach ahead of the Gujarat Titans clash.

DC are next in action on Wednesday (April 24) when they take on Gujarat Titans (GT) in their second clash at traditional home Arun Jaitley Stadium. DC were beaten&nbsp;in their last home match by SunRisers Hyderabad by 68 runs on Saturday and will look to get back to winning ways on Wednesday.

It will be an interesting next few days for Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant as he contemplates his international return ahead of the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies in June.

It will be an interesting next few days for Delhi Capitals skipper Rishabh Pant as he contemplates his international return ahead of the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies in June. Former Australia captain and Delhi Capitals’ coach Ricky Ponting has backed Pant to make the India squad for the T20 World Cup. Speaking exclusively to WION, Ponting backed Pant ahead of Sanju Samson and Dinesh Karthik, who have been in great form for their Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises. Ponting backs Pant’s selection for World Cup “No doubt that Pant should make India T20 World Cup squad. Great to see him back and he is playing well. He is too dynamic of a player to not make the India squad,” Ponting said in an exclusive chat with WION’s Nikhil Mathur on Monday. Pant has so far endured a mixed return to the IPL after being injured in a near-fatal car accident in December 2022. He returned to the IPL with DC this season and has so far scored 254 runs in eight matches at the IPL. He now faces tough competition to be back in the Indian team as multiple players fight for a place. KL Rahul and Sanju Samson are in the pole position to make the T20 World Cup squad, while Ishan Kishan (despite contract issues) and Dinesh Karthik are also in the fray to make the Indian team for the T20 World Cup. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Sourav Ganguly, Ricky Ponting back Rishabh Pant to play 2024 T20 World Cup Ponting on DC’s playoff chances Ponting also spoke on the team’s chances of reaching the playoffs of the IPL 2024, conceding they will have to win every game remaining. DC have so far won three matches and lost five, which sees them languish at the 8th spot in the IPL 2024 standings. “Every game is a must-win from now on. Our best is good enough but we haven't been good across the 40 overs. We were a bit jinxed at the beginning of the season. Harry Brook didn't turn up, marsh got injured. Mukesh and Kuldeep missed a few games. No excuses now,” added the DC coach ahead of the Gujarat Titans clash. DC are next in action on Wednesday (April 24) when they take on Gujarat Titans (GT) in their second clash at traditional home Arun Jaitley Stadium. DC were beaten in their last home match by SunRisers Hyderabad by 68 runs on Saturday and will look to get back to winning ways on Wednesday.

Exclusive: He should make India T20 WC squad - Ricky Ponting backs Rishabh Pant for international return

Team India is&nbsp;all set&nbsp;to resume its quest to win the T20 World Cup as they prepare for the marquee event&nbsp;post&nbsp;the Indian Premier League (IPL). Walking into the tournament as one of the favourites to win the competition, India will look to send a strong squad for the T20 World Cup that will&nbsp;be played&nbsp;in the USA and the West Indies.&nbsp;To select the&nbsp;squad, it&nbsp;is reported&nbsp;that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will speak to captain Rohit Sharma when his Mumbai Indians side travels to Delhi on April 27.

<h2>BCCI to speak to Rohit&nbsp;</h2>

According to media reports, the selectors panel led by Ajit Agarkar will speak to Rohit about several players who could be part of the first&nbsp;squad,&nbsp;while also keeping eyes on potential back-up options. Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant’s selection will be the&nbsp;biggest&nbsp;topic of discussion&nbsp;with&nbsp;both likely to play in the T20 World Cup. The selectors will have plenty of thinking to do in the bowling department with out of favour Yuzvendra Chahal impressing during the IPL 2024.&nbsp;

Virat played his first T20I match for India since the T20 World Cup in January when he&nbsp;was selected&nbsp;for the Afghanistan tour. He has been in excellent touch for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) side in the IPL 2024&nbsp;and has&nbsp;scored 361 runs in seven matches&nbsp;including&nbsp;an unbeaten hundred against Rajasthan Royals (RR). &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-fleming-lauds-ms-dhonis-skill-set-in-pre-season-as-mahi-turns-back-clock-against-lsg-713259">IPL 2024: Fleming lauds MS Dhoni’s skill-set in pre-season as Mahi turns back clock against LSG</a>

Pant’s position is a little vulnerable&nbsp;considering&nbsp;there is competition for the spot in the squad. Sanju Samson has been impressive again with RR&nbsp;while&nbsp;KL Rahul also played a vital role for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday. Despite not being offered a central contract before the IPL, Ishan Kishan&nbsp;continues to be&nbsp;an option due to his recent exploits with the national side. Lastly, Dinesh Karthik is also proving why he is ageing like a fine wine and has thrown up a tough challenge to the selectors.

In the bowling department,&nbsp;Chahal is most likely to join Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav after impressing in the IPL 2024 with RR.&nbsp;

Team India is all set to resume its quest to win the T20 World Cup as they prepare for the marquee event post the Indian Premier League (IPL). Walking into the tournament as one of the favourites to win the competition, India will look to send a strong squad for the T20 World Cup that will be played in the USA and the West Indies.

Team India is all set to resume its quest to win the T20 World Cup as they prepare for the marquee event post the Indian Premier League (IPL). Walking into the tournament as one of the favourites to win the competition, India will look to send a strong squad for the T20 World Cup that will be played in the USA and the West Indies. To select the squad, it is reported that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will speak to captain Rohit Sharma when his Mumbai Indians side travels to Delhi on April 27. BCCI to speak to Rohit According to media reports, the selectors panel led by Ajit Agarkar will speak to Rohit about several players who could be part of the first squad, while also keeping eyes on potential back-up options. Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant’s selection will be the biggest topic of discussion with both likely to play in the T20 World Cup. The selectors will have plenty of thinking to do in the bowling department with out of favour Yuzvendra Chahal impressing during the IPL 2024. Virat played his first T20I match for India since the T20 World Cup in January when he was selected for the Afghanistan tour. He has been in excellent touch for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) side in the IPL 2024 and has scored 361 runs in seven matches including an unbeaten hundred against Rajasthan Royals (RR). ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Fleming lauds MS Dhoni’s skill-set in pre-season as Mahi turns back clock against LSG Pant’s position is a little vulnerable considering there is competition for the spot in the squad. Sanju Samson has been impressive again with RR while KL Rahul also played a vital role for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday. Despite not being offered a central contract before the IPL, Ishan Kishan continues to be an option due to his recent exploits with the national side. Lastly, Dinesh Karthik is also proving why he is ageing like a fine wine and has thrown up a tough challenge to the selectors. In the bowling department, Chahal is most likely to join Ravindra Jadeja and Kuldeep Yadav after impressing in the IPL 2024 with RR.

T20 World Cup: Selectors to meet Rohit Sharma in Delhi on April 27; Virat, Pant likely to be included - Report

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB)&nbsp;is set&nbsp;to announce their new head coach by the end of April as the squad prepares for the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. According to multiple media reports in Pakistan&nbsp;PCB&nbsp;chairman Mohsin Naqvi has cleared his intentions to appoint a new coach intending to win the T20 World Cup for the second time in the&nbsp;nation’s&nbsp; history.&nbsp;Pakistan cricket has seen a turbulent few weeks after the squad went for military training while Shaheen Shah Afridi was replaced by Babar Azam as the new white-ball captain.

<h2>Pakistan to have new coach?</h2>

"The PCB chairman, Mohsin&nbsp;Naqvi&nbsp;has made it clear that&nbsp;the long-term appointments of coaches will be done&nbsp;through a due process and all commitments would be met by the board,"&nbsp;a Pakistan media report read.&nbsp;

"Even in Kirsten and&nbsp;Gillispie's&nbsp;case though, the board has held direct negotiations with them, and they remain top candidates to be appointed head coaches, (but)&nbsp;they were also told&nbsp;to apply through due process by the deadline,"&nbsp;the source said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-we-like-to-back-players-csk-coach-stephen-fleming-pledges-support-to-under-fire-daryl-mitchell-713002">IPL 2024: We like to back players, CSK coach Stephen Fleming pledges support to under fire Daryl Mitchell</a>

As things stand, PCB is considering options to hire Gary Kirsten, who led India to the 2011 ODI World Cup win and worked in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He also served as the coach of the South African national side&nbsp;having&nbsp;been eccentric in the&nbsp;team’s&nbsp;run in the middle of the last decade.&nbsp;

Pakistan cricket has been headed by interim members&nbsp;in recent times&nbsp;with&nbsp;Inzamam-ul-Haq taking selection duties for ODI World Cup.&nbsp;On the other hand, they sacked Babar Azam as white-ball captain&nbsp;with&nbsp;former PCB boss Najam&nbsp;Sethi’s&nbsp;messages getting leaked.&nbsp;

Pakistan will meet arch-rivals India in the T20 World Cup on June 9 as both teams square off in New York. Both teams are placed in Group A alongside the USA, Canada and Ireland in what will be an extended format of the T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to announce their new head coach by the end of April as the squad prepares for the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is set to announce their new head coach by the end of April as the squad prepares for the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies. According to multiple media reports in Pakistan PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has cleared his intentions to appoint a new coach intending to win the T20 World Cup for the second time in the nation’s history. Pakistan cricket has seen a turbulent few weeks after the squad went for military training while Shaheen Shah Afridi was replaced by Babar Azam as the new white-ball captain. Pakistan to have new coach? "The PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi has made it clear that the long-term appointments of coaches will be done through a due process and all commitments would be met by the board," a Pakistan media report read. "Even in Kirsten and Gillispie's case though, the board has held direct negotiations with them, and they remain top candidates to be appointed head coaches, (but) they were also told to apply through due process by the deadline," the source said. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: We like to back players, CSK coach Stephen Fleming pledges support to under fire Daryl Mitchell As things stand, PCB is considering options to hire Gary Kirsten, who led India to the 2011 ODI World Cup win and worked in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He also served as the coach of the South African national side having been eccentric in the team’s run in the middle of the last decade. Pakistan cricket has been headed by interim members in recent times with Inzamam-ul-Haq taking selection duties for ODI World Cup. On the other hand, they sacked Babar Azam as white-ball captain with former PCB boss Najam Sethi’s messages getting leaked. Pakistan will meet arch-rivals India in the T20 World Cup on June 9 as both teams square off in New York. Both teams are placed in Group A alongside the USA, Canada and Ireland in what will be an extended format of the T20 World Cup.

Pakistan to announce new head coach by April-end with T20 World Cup on agenda - Report

Legendary England bowler Stuart Broad has backed the selection of Rishabh Pant in the Indian squad as the countdown to the tournament begins. The T20 World Cup is all set to start on June 1 in the USA and the West Indies as national boards are all set to announce their squads. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)&nbsp;is also likely to&nbsp;announce the T20 World Cup squad by the end of the month or in the first week of May. While there is still confirmation on who will travel with the&nbsp;squad, it&nbsp;is reported&nbsp;that the selectors are already keeping a close eye on&nbsp;Pant&nbsp;while Virat Kohli is also under the&nbsp;radar of the committee.&nbsp;

<h2>Broad backs Pant for the T20 World Cup</h2>

"The selection for the Indian team is up in the air a little bit. You have some players pending in that team.&nbsp;Rishabh&nbsp;Pant's&nbsp;probably the one on whom&nbsp;there's&nbsp;a lot of discussion about.&nbsp; There was a shot I saw him play against KKR, a no-look flick over deep square leg for six.&nbsp;The moment he played that shot, I thought, he has got to be in that T20 World Cup squad.&nbsp;He's&nbsp;ready.&nbsp;He's&nbsp;good to go,"&nbsp;Broad said on Star Sports.

Pant has not played international cricket since his near-fatal accident in December 2022 in a car crash. He last represented India in the Test series against Bangladesh and has since been on the treatment table.&nbsp;He missed the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia in 2023, IPL 2023&nbsp;and the ODI World Cup in India.&nbsp;So far in IPL 2024, Pant has played seven matches and scored 210 runs at an average of 35.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-we-like-to-back-players-csk-coach-stephen-fleming-pledges-support-to-under-fire-daryl-mitchell-713002">IPL 2024: We like to back players, CSK coach Stephen Fleming pledges support to under fire Daryl Mitchell</a>

Pant is not the only player in contention for a place in the World Cup team&nbsp;with&nbsp;out-of-favour Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul and Dinesh Karthik also in contention.&nbsp;Rahul’s&nbsp;selection will be a&nbsp;key&nbsp;factor considering he has not been the first choice in recent months&nbsp;while&nbsp;Ishan has been on the receiving end of selectors' criticism for pulling out of the South Africa tour and the Ranji Trophy season.&nbsp;

<h2>Dinesh Karthik a wildcard?</h2>

One&nbsp;of the names that is&nbsp;still attracting the selectors is Dinesh Karthik, as he ages like a fine wine.&nbsp;Karthik has&nbsp;once&nbsp;again exploded onto the scene this season despite Royal Challengers&nbsp;Bengaluru’s&nbsp;poor form. He played a valiant 83-run knock against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in just 35 balls to show his skills as a pitch-hitter at the age of 38. He was interestingly included in the India squad for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.&nbsp;

Legendary England bowler Stuart Broad has backed the selection of Rishabh Pant in the Indian squad as the countdown to the tournament begins. The T20 World Cup is all set to start on June 1 in the USA and the West Indies as national boards are all set to announce their squads.

Legendary England bowler Stuart Broad has backed the selection of Rishabh Pant in the Indian squad as the countdown to the tournament begins. The T20 World Cup is all set to start on June 1 in the USA and the West Indies as national boards are all set to announce their squads. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is also likely to announce the T20 World Cup squad by the end of the month or in the first week of May. While there is still confirmation on who will travel with the squad, it is reported that the selectors are already keeping a close eye on Pant while Virat Kohli is also under the radar of the committee. Broad backs Pant for the T20 World Cup "The selection for the Indian team is up in the air a little bit. You have some players pending in that team. Rishabh Pant's probably the one on whom there's a lot of discussion about. There was a shot I saw him play against KKR, a no-look flick over deep square leg for six. The moment he played that shot, I thought, he has got to be in that T20 World Cup squad. He's ready. He's good to go," Broad said on Star Sports. Pant has not played international cricket since his near-fatal accident in December 2022 in a car crash. He last represented India in the Test series against Bangladesh and has since been on the treatment table. He missed the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia in 2023, IPL 2023 and the ODI World Cup in India. So far in IPL 2024, Pant has played seven matches and scored 210 runs at an average of 35. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: We like to back players, CSK coach Stephen Fleming pledges support to under fire Daryl Mitchell Pant is not the only player in contention for a place in the World Cup team with out-of-favour Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul and Dinesh Karthik also in contention. Rahul’s selection will be a key factor considering he has not been the first choice in recent months while Ishan has been on the receiving end of selectors' criticism for pulling out of the South Africa tour and the Ranji Trophy season. Dinesh Karthik a wildcard? One of the names that is still attracting the selectors is Dinesh Karthik, as he ages like a fine wine. Karthik has once again exploded onto the scene this season despite Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s poor form. He played a valiant 83-run knock against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in just 35 balls to show his skills as a pitch-hitter at the age of 38. He was interestingly included in the India squad for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia.

T20 World Cup: England legend backs Rishabh Pant’s inclusion, says ‘he has got to be in that squad’

Azhar Mahmood believes other teams should not write off Pakistan ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, which will kickoff in June in West Indies and USA. At present, a lot of changes have taken place in the leadership group within the senior national team. Babar Azam has once again been appointed as the white-ball skipper whereas Mahmood was recently roped in as the head coach ahead of his side's five-match T20I series versus New Zealand at home. Mahmood opined that Babar &amp; Co. have performed well in recent ICC tournaments even though they have not won a major title since 2017.&nbsp;

Ahead of the NZ T20Is, which starts on April 18 in Rawalpindi, Mahmood said in a press conference, "Our strength is pure talent and skill. We’ve performed decently on the world stage in the format, and we’ve recently featured in the World Cup finals (2022) and semi-finals (2021). We know we haven’t won a big tournament since 2009 (Men’s T20 World Cup) or the Champions Trophy (2017). But you can never write off the Pakistan team, especially in the T20 format."

He further opined, "We’ve the depth and strength, but there are always areas for improvement. Looking at those aspects, especially in the areas that we’ve lagged behind, is something that I’ve worked on."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-wouldnt-say-i-single-handedly-won-game-rr-opener-jos-buttler-after-miraculous-ton-vs-kkr-712239">IPL 2024: 'Wouldn't say I single-handedly won game' - RR opener Jos Buttler after miraculous ton vs KKR</a>

Mahmood added, "So till the World Cup, we’d like to develop a structure and game plan, to give role clarity to players. In our squad, we’ve young talent Irfan Niazi, Azam (Khan) and Usman Khan. So definitely, we’ve to give these players a look. We need to use our bench strength. But at the same time, from the discussion I’ve had, we should be aware of our best XI when we play our first game on 6 June in the T20 World Cup."

Pakistan have a mix of young and experienced players in their squad for the home T20Is versus the second-stringed Black Caps. They have added Imad Wasim and Mohammed Amir, who came out of international retirements, whereas the squad also comprises debutants such as&nbsp;Irfan Niazi and Usman Khan.&nbsp;

The one-time winners will be eager to gel well and get some victories under the new leadership group before heading into the T20 WC. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, USA, Canada and Ireland.&nbsp;

Azhar Mahmood believes other teams should not write off Pakistan ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, which will kickoff in June in West Indies and USA. At present, a lot of changes have taken place in the leadership group within the senior national team.

Azhar Mahmood believes other teams should not write off Pakistan ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, which will kickoff in June in West Indies and USA. At present, a lot of changes have taken place in the leadership group within the senior national team. Babar Azam has once again been appointed as the white-ball skipper whereas Mahmood was recently roped in as the head coach ahead of his side's five-match T20I series versus New Zealand at home. Mahmood opined that Babar & Co. have performed well in recent ICC tournaments even though they have not won a major title since 2017. Ahead of the NZ T20Is, which starts on April 18 in Rawalpindi, Mahmood said in a press conference, "Our strength is pure talent and skill. We’ve performed decently on the world stage in the format, and we’ve recently featured in the World Cup finals (2022) and semi-finals (2021). We know we haven’t won a big tournament since 2009 (Men’s T20 World Cup) or the Champions Trophy (2017). But you can never write off the Pakistan team, especially in the T20 format." He further opined, "We’ve the depth and strength, but there are always areas for improvement. Looking at those aspects, especially in the areas that we’ve lagged behind, is something that I’ve worked on." Also read: IPL 2024: 'Wouldn't say I single-handedly won game' - RR opener Jos Buttler after miraculous ton vs KKR Mahmood added, "So till the World Cup, we’d like to develop a structure and game plan, to give role clarity to players. In our squad, we’ve young talent Irfan Niazi, Azam (Khan) and Usman Khan. So definitely, we’ve to give these players a look. We need to use our bench strength. But at the same time, from the discussion I’ve had, we should be aware of our best XI when we play our first game on 6 June in the T20 World Cup." Pakistan have a mix of young and experienced players in their squad for the home T20Is versus the second-stringed Black Caps. They have added Imad Wasim and Mohammed Amir, who came out of international retirements, whereas the squad also comprises debutants such as Irfan Niazi and Usman Khan. The one-time winners will be eager to gel well and get some victories under the new leadership group before heading into the T20 WC. They are placed in Group A along with arch-rivals India, USA, Canada and Ireland.

‘You can never write off Pakistan’: Azhar Mahmood issues warning to other teams ahead of T20 World Cup

Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Ricky Ponting has backed Rishabh Pant to be part of India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. Ponting believes his franchise captain is a must in the India squad despite acknowlediging the depth in India's cricket talent, particularly in the wicketkeeping-batsman role. There are many contenders for the keeper-batter slot for the T20 WC, such as KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma whereas veteran Dinesh Karthik also has an outside chance given his splendid start in the ongoing IPL season. However, the former Australian captain has backed Pant, who already has 194 runs in 123 balls faced in IPL 2024 (striking at&nbsp;157.72).

In an interview with PTI, Ponting said, "Do I believe whether Rishabh should be there in the World Cup squad? Absolutely I do. He deserves to be in that WT20 squad by the end of the IPL, I think we have seen Rishabh play the way we have seen him play in the last six seasons of IPL and now back playing for India. One thing we certainly know that there is a lot of depth around Indian cricket, with keeper batters and I feel some guys are in really good form at the moment. Kishan is playing well, Samson is playing well and KL Rahul is playing well, there's a lot of options there but if I was picking a team, I would have Rishabh Pant in it every day of the week."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-everyones-terrified-of-us-srh-captain-pat-cummins-speech-goes-viral-after-rcb-tie-watch-711918">IPL 2024: 'Everyone’s terrified of us' | SRH captain Pat Cummins' speech goes viral after RCB tie - Watch</a>

Pant returned to competitive cricket, after 14 months, during this year's IPL following a horrific car crash in late 2022. Since his return, all eyes are on his fitness and form. While the swashbuckling left-hander started off slowly, he has gained momentum with each passing day and striking the ball really well. Thus, he has a strong chance to make a national comeback in the T20 WC, which commences early June.&nbsp;

Rohit Sharma-led India's provisional squad for the T20 WC is likely to be announced early next month. Meanwhile, Pant is now focused on taking DC to the top-four in the IPL 2024 points table as the one-time finalists are struggling at the moment. They are at the ninth spot and will now host SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Saturday (April 20), at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Ricky Ponting has backed Rishabh Pant to be part of India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. Ponting believes his franchise captain is a must in the India squad despite acknowlediging the depth in India's cricket talent, particularly in the wicketkeeping-batsman role.

Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Ricky Ponting has backed Rishabh Pant to be part of India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. Ponting believes his franchise captain is a must in the India squad despite acknowlediging the depth in India's cricket talent, particularly in the wicketkeeping-batsman role. There are many contenders for the keeper-batter slot for the T20 WC, such as KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Jitesh Sharma whereas veteran Dinesh Karthik also has an outside chance given his splendid start in the ongoing IPL season. However, the former Australian captain has backed Pant, who already has 194 runs in 123 balls faced in IPL 2024 (striking at 157.72). In an interview with PTI, Ponting said, "Do I believe whether Rishabh should be there in the World Cup squad? Absolutely I do. He deserves to be in that WT20 squad by the end of the IPL, I think we have seen Rishabh play the way we have seen him play in the last six seasons of IPL and now back playing for India. One thing we certainly know that there is a lot of depth around Indian cricket, with keeper batters and I feel some guys are in really good form at the moment. Kishan is playing well, Samson is playing well and KL Rahul is playing well, there's a lot of options there but if I was picking a team, I would have Rishabh Pant in it every day of the week." Also read: IPL 2024: 'Everyone’s terrified of us' | SRH captain Pat Cummins' speech goes viral after RCB tie - Watch Pant returned to competitive cricket, after 14 months, during this year's IPL following a horrific car crash in late 2022. Since his return, all eyes are on his fitness and form. While the swashbuckling left-hander started off slowly, he has gained momentum with each passing day and striking the ball really well. Thus, he has a strong chance to make a national comeback in the T20 WC, which commences early June. Rohit Sharma-led India's provisional squad for the T20 WC is likely to be announced early next month. Meanwhile, Pant is now focused on taking DC to the top-four in the IPL 2024 points table as the one-time finalists are struggling at the moment. They are at the ninth spot and will now host SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Saturday (April 20), at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

IPL 2024: DC coach Ricky Ponting feels Rishabh Pant ‘deserves’ to be in India’s T20 World Cup squad

Match 25 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by seven wickets in pursuit of 197 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday (April 11). Opting to bowl first, Hardik Pandya &amp; Co. restricted RCB to 196 for 8 despite fifties from Faf du Plessis (61), Rajat Patidar (50) and Dinesh Karthik (53). Jasprit Bumrah's 5 for 21 stood tall for MI before Ishan Kishan's 34-ball 69 and Suryakumar Yadav's 19-ball 52 took their side home in 15.3 overs.

During the RCB innings, Karthik provided the much-needed late flourish for Bengaluru with his blistering 23-ball 53, laced with 5 fours and 4 sixes. While he was in the middle, former MI skipper Rohit teased him hilariously with a comment on the T20 World Cup 2024 selection.&nbsp;

"World Cup Khelna Hai, World Cup (He is looking to push for the World Cup selection. He has to play the World Cup)," Rohit was heard saying&nbsp;on the stump mic. Here is the clip of the funny banter between the Indian captain and Karthik.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Sharma ji to dinesh karthik- worldcup khelna h worldcup 😂😂 
rohit and stump mic recording never ending story 😂😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvRCB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RCBvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvMI</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2024</a> <a href="https://t.co/CSefv5hzCi">pic.twitter.com/CSefv5hzCi</a>
— rAvI RaThOrE (@Ravi_rathore060) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravi_rathore060/status/1778455651339194413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-ishan-bumrah-earn-statement-win-for-mumbai-indians-at-wankhede-as-rcb-crumble-to-fifth-defeat-710300">IPL 2024: Ishan, Bumrah earn statement win for Mumbai Indians at Wankhede as RCB crumble to fifth defeat</a>

Karthik last played for India during the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. He forced his way back into the Indian team following a sensational run in the domestic circuit and that year's IPL (for RCB). However, he didn't create any such impact in the T20 WC Down Under. Since then, he has not made an appearance for the national side. However, he continues to be an active player in the domestic circuit, for Tamil Nadu and has also made a name for himself as a commentator.

Karthik, who is playing his last IPL in the ongoing edition, has started the new season with a bang. So far, he has&nbsp;143 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 190.67, including plenty of impactful cameos.&nbsp;

With many wicketkeeper-batters eyeing a place in the T20 WC spot, it will be interesting to see if the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee springs a surprise by including Karthik. All the participating teams have to reveal their provisional squad by early May. The T20 WC will kick off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024, and will be co-hosted by the West Indies and the USA.

Match 25 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by seven wickets in pursuit of 197 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday (April 11).

Match 25 of the IPL 2024 edition saw the five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by seven wickets in pursuit of 197 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Thursday (April 11). Opting to bowl first, Hardik Pandya & Co. restricted RCB to 196 for 8 despite fifties from Faf du Plessis (61), Rajat Patidar (50) and Dinesh Karthik (53). Jasprit Bumrah's 5 for 21 stood tall for MI before Ishan Kishan's 34-ball 69 and Suryakumar Yadav's 19-ball 52 took their side home in 15.3 overs. During the RCB innings, Karthik provided the much-needed late flourish for Bengaluru with his blistering 23-ball 53, laced with 5 fours and 4 sixes. While he was in the middle, former MI skipper Rohit teased him hilariously with a comment on the T20 World Cup 2024 selection. "World Cup Khelna Hai, World Cup (He is looking to push for the World Cup selection. He has to play the World Cup)," Rohit was heard saying on the stump mic. Here is the clip of the funny banter between the Indian captain and Karthik. Sharma ji to dinesh karthik- worldcup khelna h worldcup 😂😂 rohit and stump mic recording never ending story 😂😂#MIvRCB #RCBvMI #IPL2024 pic.twitter.com/CSefv5hzCi — rAvI RaThOrE (@Ravi_rathore060) April 11, 2024 × Also read: IPL 2024: Ishan, Bumrah earn statement win for Mumbai Indians at Wankhede as RCB crumble to fifth defeat Karthik last played for India during the 2022 T20 World Cup, in Australia. He forced his way back into the Indian team following a sensational run in the domestic circuit and that year's IPL (for RCB). However, he didn't create any such impact in the T20 WC Down Under. Since then, he has not made an appearance for the national side. However, he continues to be an active player in the domestic circuit, for Tamil Nadu and has also made a name for himself as a commentator. Karthik, who is playing his last IPL in the ongoing edition, has started the new season with a bang. So far, he has 143 runs in six matches at a strike rate of 190.67, including plenty of impactful cameos. With many wicketkeeper-batters eyeing a place in the T20 WC spot, it will be interesting to see if the Ajit Agarkar-led BCCI selection committee springs a surprise by including Karthik. All the participating teams have to reveal their provisional squad by early May. The T20 WC will kick off on June 1, soon after IPL 2024, and will be co-hosted by the West Indies and the USA.

IPL 2024: Dinesh Karthik for T20 World Cup? Rohit's hilarious stump mic remark makes heads turn - Watch

England 2019 World Cup hero Jofra Archer is all set to&nbsp;return to the England national side as he tries to prove his fitness for the upcoming Pakistan series in May. Archer, who has been struggling with injury issues in recent times last played for England in March 2023 during the Bangladesh tour and has since then been missing in action. With the T20 World Cup taking place in the United States and the West Indies, Archer will be eager to board the England team&nbsp;flight.

<h2>Archer in contention for T20 World Cup</h2>

"Absolutely," Rob Key told Sky Sports News when asked if Archer is a consideration for the World Cup squad. "Jofra, he's been out on Sussex's pre-season out in India. He bowled quickly out there, he bowled really well."

Rob Key, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Director is optimistic about the inclusion of the pacer who helped England win the ODI World Cup in 2019. It is reported that Archer is in the Caribbean islands and is working hard with his fitness. His availability will depend on the progress he has made during the next few days.

"He's now just gone back in the Caribbean, where he is going to play a little bit of club cricket, stuff like that - all about getting himself ready for that World T20. He'll play hopefully the Pakistan series. But it's always fingers crossed at the moment with Jofra,” Key added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-pat-cummins-ready-for-ms-dhoni-challenge-in-srh-vs-csk-contest-in-hyderabad-708126">IPL 2024: Pat Cummins ready for MS Dhoni challenge in SRH vs CSK contest in Hyderabad</a>

<h2>England’s T20 World Cup journey</h2>

England are the defending champions of the T20 World Cup and were handed a huge setback earlier in the week when Ben Stokes pulled out of the tournament. He played an eccentric part in England winning the T20 World Cup having scored unbeaten 52 and leading the English side home. If Archer is passed fit, it will be a huge boost for England’s chances considering the absence of Stokes.

It is also worth noting, that England management has already cleared that Archer won’t be considered for the Test format until 2025. England begin their T20 World Cup quest against neighbours Scotland, while they also face Ashes rivals Australia on June 8 in Barbados.

England 2019 World Cup hero Jofra Archer is all set to return to the England national side as he tries to prove his fitness for the upcoming Pakistan series in May.

England 2019 World Cup hero Jofra Archer is all set to return to the England national side as he tries to prove his fitness for the upcoming Pakistan series in May. Archer, who has been struggling with injury issues in recent times last played for England in March 2023 during the Bangladesh tour and has since then been missing in action. With the T20 World Cup taking place in the United States and the West Indies, Archer will be eager to board the England team flight. Archer in contention for T20 World Cup "Absolutely," Rob Key told Sky Sports News when asked if Archer is a consideration for the World Cup squad. "Jofra, he's been out on Sussex's pre-season out in India. He bowled quickly out there, he bowled really well." Rob Key, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Director is optimistic about the inclusion of the pacer who helped England win the ODI World Cup in 2019. It is reported that Archer is in the Caribbean islands and is working hard with his fitness. His availability will depend on the progress he has made during the next few days. "He's now just gone back in the Caribbean, where he is going to play a little bit of club cricket, stuff like that - all about getting himself ready for that World T20. He'll play hopefully the Pakistan series. But it's always fingers crossed at the moment with Jofra,” Key added. ALSO READ | IPL 2024: Pat Cummins ready for MS Dhoni challenge in SRH vs CSK contest in Hyderabad England’s T20 World Cup journey England are the defending champions of the T20 World Cup and were handed a huge setback earlier in the week when Ben Stokes pulled out of the tournament. He played an eccentric part in England winning the T20 World Cup having scored unbeaten 52 and leading the English side home. If Archer is passed fit, it will be a huge boost for England’s chances considering the absence of Stokes. It is also worth noting, that England management has already cleared that Archer won’t be considered for the Test format until 2025. England begin their T20 World Cup quest against neighbours Scotland, while they also face Ashes rivals Australia on June 8 in Barbados.

T20 World Cup 2024: Jofra Archer in contention for England squad, likely to feature in Pakistan series

New Zealand opener Colin Munro is still in contention to feature in the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Having played his last international game in 2020, the swashbuckling left-hander is in-line to make a comeback due to his record in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The opening batter has&nbsp;2,353 runs in CPL, at an average of 35.65 and a strike rate of 128.86 with one hundred and 16 half-centuries. While he did turn down the offer to make a comeback in New Zealand's five T20Is versus Pakistan, in Pakistan, his name will come up for discussion when the selectors meet to finalise the T20 WC squad.&nbsp;

NZ are gearing up for a five-match T20I series in Pakistan and named a second-stringed lineup, without the likes of Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, due to IPL commitments, and, hence, Munro was offered to make a return. While he declined the chance, selection manager Sam Wells said he still remains in contention for the T20 WC.

"We got in touch with Colin. He's obviously been in fine form for the last few years in various competitions around the world and, in particular, has an excellent record in the Caribbean Premier League," Wells was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo.

"He made himself unavailable for this tour but he's potentially still an option,"&nbsp;Wells further said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-england-captains-divided-over-ben-stokes-unavailability-for-t20-world-cup-707218">Former England captains divided over Ben Stokes’ unavailability for T20 World Cup</a>

Munro is the seventh-highest run-getter of CPL, while for the New Zealand national team he&nbsp;has scored 1,724 runs in T20Is, striking at&nbsp;156.44, including three centuries and 11 fifties. Thus, his overall record in the format and experience of playing in the Caribbean island keeps him in the selectors' radar. However, given the Kiwis have plenty of options at the top -- with Finn Allen, Ravindra, Williamson and Devon Conway -- it won't be easy for Munro to feature in the XI even if he becomes part of the final squad for the World Cup.&nbsp;

In this regard, Wells said, "I don't think it takes a rocket scientist to work out that our top order is relatively settled but if anything were to happen with injuries and what-not, he's still an option for us."

All the participating teams have to&nbsp;submit their provisional squads by May 1, with a final deadline on May 25.

New Zealand opener Colin Munro is still in contention to feature in the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Having played his last international game in 2020, the swashbuckling left-hander is in-line to make a comeback due to his record in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

New Zealand opener Colin Munro is still in contention to feature in the 2024 T20 World Cup, to be held in West Indies and USA in June. Having played his last international game in 2020, the swashbuckling left-hander is in-line to make a comeback due to his record in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL). The opening batter has 2,353 runs in CPL, at an average of 35.65 and a strike rate of 128.86 with one hundred and 16 half-centuries. While he did turn down the offer to make a comeback in New Zealand's five T20Is versus Pakistan, in Pakistan, his name will come up for discussion when the selectors meet to finalise the T20 WC squad. NZ are gearing up for a five-match T20I series in Pakistan and named a second-stringed lineup, without the likes of Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra, due to IPL commitments, and, hence, Munro was offered to make a return. While he declined the chance, selection manager Sam Wells said he still remains in contention for the T20 WC. "We got in touch with Colin. He's obviously been in fine form for the last few years in various competitions around the world and, in particular, has an excellent record in the Caribbean Premier League," Wells was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo. "He made himself unavailable for this tour but he's potentially still an option," Wells further said. Also read: Former England captains divided over Ben Stokes’ unavailability for T20 World Cup Munro is the seventh-highest run-getter of CPL, while for the New Zealand national team he has scored 1,724 runs in T20Is, striking at 156.44, including three centuries and 11 fifties. Thus, his overall record in the format and experience of playing in the Caribbean island keeps him in the selectors' radar. However, given the Kiwis have plenty of options at the top -- with Finn Allen, Ravindra, Williamson and Devon Conway -- it won't be easy for Munro to feature in the XI even if he becomes part of the final squad for the World Cup. In this regard, Wells said, "I don't think it takes a rocket scientist to work out that our top order is relatively settled but if anything were to happen with injuries and what-not, he's still an option for us." All the participating teams have to submit their provisional squads by May 1, with a final deadline on May 25.

New Zealand star opener 'potentially still an option' for T20 World Cup squad

England batter Jonny Bairstow, who is currently part of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) lineup in IPL 2024, already has one eye on the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA in June. The swasbuckling batter said that he is eager for his national side to replicate&nbsp;the success of Paul Collingwood-led squad when they beat Australia in the T20 World Cup final in 2010, which was also held in the Caribbean island.&nbsp;Jos Buttler-led England are heading into the forthcoming edition as the defending champions, having won the coveted title in Australia in late 2022.

Notably, Bairstow was not part of Buttler-led England's triumphant squad. Back then, he was away from action after he broke his leg and dislocated his ankle after slipping during a round of golf. Speaking to Sky Sports, Bairstow said, "I'm feeling really good about my game, it's less than a year coming back from my ankle and I'm moving the best I have since the operation."

He further opined, "I'll be hopeful going to the World Cup. I missed the win in Australia with the guys and that was such a great competition to watch afar but I also want to be a part of it. The special memories that are made and the special bonds that are made with the people out there. Hopefully we can recreate what happened in the West Indies in 2010."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2024-use-his-pace-and-steve-smith-reveals-plans-on-how-to-tackle-lsg-speed-gun-mayank-yadav-707234">IPL 2024: 'Use his pace and...' - Steve Smith reveals plans on how to tackle LSG speed gun Mayank Yadav</a>

England were also the defending champions in the last edition of the ODI WC, held in India last year. However, nothing clicked for them in the 10-team mega event as England failed to make it to the semifinals and ended at the seventh place (with only three wins from nine encounters). However, Bairstow is confident that their poor run in the ODI WC won't affect them going into the T20 WC.

He stated, "The ODI World Cup and this T20 edition are different competitions, they will be played in different conditions and we'll come up against different teams so you can't bring one format into another. Each format is going to be judged individually. The squad that will be selected with be the guys that Buttler and Matthew Mott feel are in the best place to put their best foot forward."

Bairstow added, "It would be a pretty special thing to retain the T20 World Cup."

England are in Group B alongside arch-rivals Australia, Namibia, Scotland and Oman. The mega event will kickoff on June 1 in USA. It will also be held in the Caribbean island simultaneously.&nbsp;

<h2>Group stage</h2>

Group A - India, Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, USA 
Group B - England, Australia, Namibia, Scotland, Oman 
Group C - New Zealand, West Indies, Afghanistan, Uganda, Papua New Guinea 
Group D - South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Nepal

England batter Jonny Bairstow, who is currently part of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) lineup in IPL 2024, already has one eye on the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA in June.

England batter Jonny Bairstow, who is currently part of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) lineup in IPL 2024, already has one eye on the 2024 T20 World Cup, in West Indies and USA in June. The swasbuckling batter said that he is eager for his national side to replicate the success of Paul Collingwood-led squad when they beat Australia in the T20 World Cup final in 2010, which was also held in the Caribbean island. Jos Buttler-led England are heading into the forthcoming edition as the defending champions, having won the coveted title in Australia in late 2022. Notably, Bairstow was not part of Buttler-led England's triumphant squad. Back then, he was away from action after he broke his leg and dislocated his ankle after slipping during a round of golf. Speaking to Sky Sports, Bairstow said, "I'm feeling really good about my game, it's less than a year coming back from my ankle and I'm moving the best I have since the operation." He further opined, "I'll be hopeful going to the World Cup. I missed the win in Australia with the guys and that was such a great competition to watch afar but I also want to be a part of it. The special memories that are made and the special bonds that are made with the people out there. Hopefully we can recreate what happened in the West Indies in 2010." Also read: IPL 2024: 'Use his pace and...' - Steve Smith reveals plans on how to tackle LSG speed gun Mayank Yadav England were also the defending champions in the last edition of the ODI WC, held in India last year. However, nothing clicked for them in the 10-team mega event as England failed to make it to the semifinals and ended at the seventh place (with only three wins from nine encounters). However, Bairstow is confident that their poor run in the ODI WC won't affect them going into the T20 WC. He stated, "The ODI World Cup and this T20 edition are different competitions, they will be played in different conditions and we'll come up against different teams so you can't bring one format into another. Each format is going to be judged individually. The squad that will be selected with be the guys that Buttler and Matthew Mott feel are in the best place to put their best foot forward." Bairstow added, "It would be a pretty special thing to retain the T20 World Cup." England are in Group B alongside arch-rivals Australia, Namibia, Scotland and Oman. The mega event will kickoff on June 1 in USA. It will also be held in the Caribbean island simultaneously. Group stage Group A - India, Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, USA Group B - England, Australia, Namibia, Scotland, Oman Group C - New Zealand, West Indies, Afghanistan, Uganda, Papua New Guinea Group D - South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Nepal

T20 World Cup: It would be special to emulate 2010 success, says England keeper-batter Jonny Bairstow

India’s T20 World Cup squad is all set to be announced in the final week of April as fans will be keeping a close eye on the developments. The T20 World Cup will start on June 1 (June 2 IST) as 2007 champions India look to end their 17-year wait for the title. India will be one of the favourites heading into the tournament which will be played in the West Indies and the USA with 20 teams taking part in the T20 World Cup.

<h2>Selectors keeping tabs on players&nbsp;</h2>

According to close sources, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors have been attending matches at the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). The selectors panel led by Ajit Agarkar is keeping close eye&nbsp;on all the players likely to play in the squad while they are also assessing the situation of potential back-up players in case any player is not available. The panel will also asses the squad for the Zimbabwe tour which will be followed by the World Cup.

Players like Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer will be of keen interest to the selectors as they were dropped from the central contracts of the BCCI. However, it is stated that they can still be picked for the T20 World Cup if they perform to the expectations in the IPL for their franchises. Ishan is more likely to be the one picked for the T20 World Cup squad having been a regular feature alongside Shubman Gill in the opening department.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bundesliga-harry-kane-coman-declared-fit-for-dortmund-clash-but-neuer-misses-out-705808">Bundesliga: Harry Kane, Coman declared fit for Dortmund clash but Neuer misses out</a>

<h2>Eyes on Virat</h2>

While other players’ performances will be monitored by the panel, they will also keep close eyes on Virat Kohli who has been speculated to be dropped. According to a few reports, the panel is considering dropping Virat for the T20 World Cup, however, if his performances stay consistent, they will have no option but to pick him for the T20 World Cup.

In the ongoing T20 World Cup so far, he has scored two fifties including an unbeaten 83 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

India are placed in group A of the T20 World Cup where they have been placed with arch-rivals Pakistan and hosts the USA. India will play Pakistan on June 9 in New York while their opening match will be against Ireland on June 5.

India’s T20 World Cup squad is all set to be announced in the final week of April as fans will be keeping a close eye on the developments. The T20 World Cup will start on June 1 (June 2 IST) as 2007 champions India look to end their 17-year wait for the title.

India’s T20 World Cup squad is all set to be announced in the final week of April as fans will be keeping a close eye on the developments. The T20 World Cup will start on June 1 (June 2 IST) as 2007 champions India look to end their 17-year wait for the title. India will be one of the favourites heading into the tournament which will be played in the West Indies and the USA with 20 teams taking part in the T20 World Cup. Selectors keeping tabs on players According to close sources, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors have been attending matches at the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). The selectors panel led by Ajit Agarkar is keeping close eye on all the players likely to play in the squad while they are also assessing the situation of potential back-up players in case any player is not available. The panel will also asses the squad for the Zimbabwe tour which will be followed by the World Cup. Players like Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer will be of keen interest to the selectors as they were dropped from the central contracts of the BCCI. However, it is stated that they can still be picked for the T20 World Cup if they perform to the expectations in the IPL for their franchises. Ishan is more likely to be the one picked for the T20 World Cup squad having been a regular feature alongside Shubman Gill in the opening department. ALSO READ | Bundesliga: Harry Kane, Coman declared fit for Dortmund clash but Neuer misses out Eyes on Virat While other players’ performances will be monitored by the panel, they will also keep close eyes on Virat Kohli who has been speculated to be dropped. According to a few reports, the panel is considering dropping Virat for the T20 World Cup, however, if his performances stay consistent, they will have no option but to pick him for the T20 World Cup. In the ongoing T20 World Cup so far, he has scored two fifties including an unbeaten 83 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). India are placed in group A of the T20 World Cup where they have been placed with arch-rivals Pakistan and hosts the USA. India will play Pakistan on June 9 in New York while their opening match will be against Ireland on June 5.

T20 World Cup 2024: India's squad likely to be announced in final week of April; eyes on Virat's involvement

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board has denied claims of exploitation of International Cricket Council (ICC) rules’ loopholes to keep Wanindu Hasaranga&nbsp;available&nbsp;for the upcoming T20 World Cup to be played in the West Indies and the USA. In an announcement made by the board on Wednesday (Mar 20), the SLC claimed that they had no role in bringing back Hasaranga in the Test format and it was the player who contacted them for the same. Hasaranga’s comeback into the Test squad immediately triggered a two-match Test ban which means that he will be able to play the&nbsp;international matches that follow, including the T20 World Cup.

"It was about two weeks ago that he told us he was open to playing Tests again," Mendis told ESPNcricinfo. "We know how it looks, but this decision was taken well before the final ODI."

<h2>What is the Wanindu Hasaranga ban issue?</h2>

During Sri Lanka's defeat to Bangladesh on Monday (March 18) Hasaranga was handed&nbsp;demerit points for showing dissent against an umpiring decision. According to the ICC ruling, a player with eight demerit points could be handed a ban for two Tests, four ODIs or four T20Is, depending on which came first. In this case, Hasaranga was entitled to serve his ban&nbsp;during the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA and could have missed up to four matches during the tournament.

However, the player and the board soon named Hasaranga in the Test squad, despite him having announced his retirement from the red-ball format. As soon as he was registered for the Test series against Bangladesh, a two-match ban was triggered, clearing the slate of eight demerit points.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/csk-vs-rcb-ipl-2024-head-to-head-stats-playing-xis-pitch-report-live-streaming-details-more-702464">CSK vs RCB- IPL 2024: Head-to-head, stats, playing XIs, pitch report, live streaming details &amp; more</a>

The good news for Sri Lanka is that even though&nbsp;Hasaranga won't be able to play in the Test matches against Bangladesh, he&nbsp;will feature in all of Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup matches which were the next international fixtures on the calendar.

According to SLC, Hasaranga had informed them in an email on March 16 of his desire to be considered for Test cricket selection going forward, citing his improved fitness levels. Ajantha Mendis, a member of Sri Lanka's selection committee, meanwhile stated that Hasaranga had in fact intimated his desire to play Test cricket even earlier.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board has denied claims of exploitation of International Cricket Council (ICC) rules’ loopholes to keep Wanindu Hasaranga available for the upcoming T20 World Cup to be played in the West Indies and the USA.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) board has denied claims of exploitation of International Cricket Council (ICC) rules’ loopholes to keep Wanindu Hasaranga available for the upcoming T20 World Cup to be played in the West Indies and the USA. In an announcement made by the board on Wednesday (Mar 20), the SLC claimed that they had no role in bringing back Hasaranga in the Test format and it was the player who contacted them for the same. Hasaranga’s comeback into the Test squad immediately triggered a two-match Test ban which means that he will be able to play the international matches that follow, including the T20 World Cup. "It was about two weeks ago that he told us he was open to playing Tests again," Mendis told ESPNcricinfo. "We know how it looks, but this decision was taken well before the final ODI." What is the Wanindu Hasaranga ban issue? During Sri Lanka's defeat to Bangladesh on Monday (March 18) Hasaranga was handed demerit points for showing dissent against an umpiring decision. According to the ICC ruling, a player with eight demerit points could be handed a ban for two Tests, four ODIs or four T20Is, depending on which came first. In this case, Hasaranga was entitled to serve his ban during the T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA and could have missed up to four matches during the tournament. However, the player and the board soon named Hasaranga in the Test squad, despite him having announced his retirement from the red-ball format. As soon as he was registered for the Test series against Bangladesh, a two-match ban was triggered, clearing the slate of eight demerit points. ALSO READ | CSK vs RCB- IPL 2024: Head-to-head, stats, playing XIs, pitch report, live streaming details & more The good news for Sri Lanka is that even though Hasaranga won't be able to play in the Test matches against Bangladesh, he will feature in all of Sri Lanka’s T20 World Cup matches which were the next international fixtures on the calendar. According to SLC, Hasaranga had informed them in an email on March 16 of his desire to be considered for Test cricket selection going forward, citing his improved fitness levels. Ajantha Mendis, a member of Sri Lanka's selection committee, meanwhile stated that Hasaranga had in fact intimated his desire to play Test cricket even earlier.

Sri Lanka Cricket board denies exploiting ICC loopholes enabling Hasaranga to play in T20 WC

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to release a new batch of tickets for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA as announced on Thursday (Mar 14). The ICC will release additional tickets for 13 matches of the T20 World Cup on Tuesday (March 19) including India’s matches against Ireland and co-hosts USA. The pool also contains the two semifinals which will be held in the West Indies.

<h2>ICC to release additional tickets</h2>

“We are delighted to have worked with our commercial partners to be able to release these additional tickets to 51 matches to ensure that we are accommodating as many fans as possible at every ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 fixture," ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley, said.

The T20 World Cup will have an expanded version with 20 teams qualifying for the major event in the West Indies and the USA. It&nbsp;will feature debut campaigns for the USA, Canada and Uganda. Like the previous few tournaments, both India and Pakistan will meet in the group stage&nbsp;on June 9 in New York.

<h2>India’s schedule</h2>

The 2007 T20 World Cup champions will start their campaign against Ireland followed by the Pakistan clash in New York. India will then take on hosts USA and Canada on June 12 and 15 respectively before entering the Super 8 stage. Both India and Pakistan will be the favourites to make the Super 8 stage with three teams getting eliminated in the group stages.

India’s T20 World Cup schedule

India vs Ireland, June 5

India vs Pakistan, June 9

India vs USA, June 12

India vs Canada, June 15

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ajit-agarkar-put-his-foot-down-for-inclusion-of-jurel-padikkal-in-test-squad-reports-700073">Ajit Agarkar put his foot down for inclusion of Jurel, Padikkal against England in Test series: Reports</a>

<h2>What is the format</h2>

Twenty teams will be divided into four groups of five teams each with every team playing four matches. The group winners and group runners-up will make the Super 8 stage of the competition. The eight teams will be divided into two groups of four teams each in the Super 8 stage. At this stage, every team will play three matches each with the group winner and group runners-up moving to the semifinals.

The T20 World Cup semi-finals will take place on June 26 and June 27 in Guyana and Trinidad, respectively. Barbados will host the final on June 29.

Interestingly, 41 of the 55 matches will be played in the Caribbean Islands while the USA will host 14 games. Both the semifinal and final will be played in the Caribbean Islands. England are the defending champions and hold the record for most titles along with hosts West Indies with two trophies in the cabinet.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to release a new batch of tickets for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA as announced on Thursday (Mar 14).

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is set to release a new batch of tickets for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and USA as announced on Thursday (Mar 14). The ICC will release additional tickets for 13 matches of the T20 World Cup on Tuesday (March 19) including India’s matches against Ireland and co-hosts USA. The pool also contains the two semifinals which will be held in the West Indies. ICC to release additional tickets “We are delighted to have worked with our commercial partners to be able to release these additional tickets to 51 matches to ensure that we are accommodating as many fans as possible at every ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 fixture," ICC Head of Events, Chris Tetley, said. The T20 World Cup will have an expanded version with 20 teams qualifying for the major event in the West Indies and the USA. It will feature debut campaigns for the USA, Canada and Uganda. Like the previous few tournaments, both India and Pakistan will meet in the group stage on June 9 in New York. India’s schedule The 2007 T20 World Cup champions will start their campaign against Ireland followed by the Pakistan clash in New York. India will then take on hosts USA and Canada on June 12 and 15 respectively before entering the Super 8 stage. Both India and Pakistan will be the favourites to make the Super 8 stage with three teams getting eliminated in the group stages. India’s T20 World Cup schedule India vs Ireland, June 5 India vs Pakistan, June 9 India vs USA, June 12 India vs Canada, June 15 ALSO READ | Ajit Agarkar put his foot down for inclusion of Jurel, Padikkal against England in Test series: Reports What is the format Twenty teams will be divided into four groups of five teams each with every team playing four matches. The group winners and group runners-up will make the Super 8 stage of the competition. The eight teams will be divided into two groups of four teams each in the Super 8 stage. At this stage, every team will play three matches each with the group winner and group runners-up moving to the semifinals. The T20 World Cup semi-finals will take place on June 26 and June 27 in Guyana and Trinidad, respectively. Barbados will host the final on June 29. Interestingly, 41 of the 55 matches will be played in the Caribbean Islands while the USA will host 14 games. Both the semifinal and final will be played in the Caribbean Islands. England are the defending champions and hold the record for most titles along with hosts West Indies with two trophies in the cabinet.

T20 World Cup 2024: ICC to release additional tickets for 13 matches on March 19

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has slammed rumour-mongers who have claimed that Virat Kohli might not feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. In recent times, it has been widely reported that the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, isn't keen on including Kohli in India's T20 WC squad as his game won't suit the wickets in West Indies, co-hosts along with USA for the upcoming mega event. Moreover, the selectors are believed to be more keen in including more power-hitters at the expense of Kohli.

However, Srikkanth -- member of Kapil Dev-led India's 1983 World Cup-winning team -- slammed all such rumours and stated that Kohli 'is a must' in India's squad for the forthcoming ICC tournament.

On his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "No chance. It's not possible to be without Virat Kohli at the T20 World Cup. He is the one who took us to the semi-finals in T20 World Cup 2022. He was the Man of the Tournament. Who is saying all this? These rumour-mongers, don't they have any other job? What is the basis for all this chatter? If India have to win the T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli is a must in the squad."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/exclusive-he-is-the-ipl-graeme-swann-lauds-ms-dhonis-fitness-backs-hardiks-appointment-as-mi-captain-700333">Exclusive: 'He is the IPL' - Graeme Swann lauds MS Dhoni's fitness; backs Hardik's appointment as MI captain</a>

<h2>'The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat'</h2>

Srikkanth further opined, "You need a guy who can just stay there. India need that sheet anchor, be it T20 World Cup or ODI World Cup. Without Virat Kohli, the Indian team cannot go. We need Virat Kohli, 100 percent. I still believe Virat Kohli should be honoured like how Sachin Tendulkar was in 2011. " He added, "The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat. It will be a great thing for Virat Kohli."

At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Talking about his&nbsp;future in the shortest format, he came back into the T20I setup early this year (after 14 months), during the Afghanistan series. Given his impressive record in T20 WC as&nbsp;the leading scorer with 1,141 runs at 131.3, it is unlikely that he will be left out of the&nbsp;Indian&nbsp;squad.

Notably, all the participating teams have to announce their provisional squad by early May.

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has slammed rumour-mongers who have claimed that Virat Kohli might not feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad.

Former Indian opener and chief selector Kris Srikkanth has slammed rumour-mongers who have claimed that Virat Kohli might not feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. In recent times, it has been widely reported that the BCCI selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, isn't keen on including Kohli in India's T20 WC squad as his game won't suit the wickets in West Indies, co-hosts along with USA for the upcoming mega event. Moreover, the selectors are believed to be more keen in including more power-hitters at the expense of Kohli. However, Srikkanth -- member of Kapil Dev-led India's 1983 World Cup-winning team -- slammed all such rumours and stated that Kohli 'is a must' in India's squad for the forthcoming ICC tournament. On his YouTube channel, Srikkanth said, "No chance. It's not possible to be without Virat Kohli at the T20 World Cup. He is the one who took us to the semi-finals in T20 World Cup 2022. He was the Man of the Tournament. Who is saying all this? These rumour-mongers, don't they have any other job? What is the basis for all this chatter? If India have to win the T20 World Cup, Virat Kohli is a must in the squad." Also read: Exclusive: 'He is the IPL' - Graeme Swann lauds MS Dhoni's fitness; backs Hardik's appointment as MI captain 'The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat' Srikkanth further opined, "You need a guy who can just stay there. India need that sheet anchor, be it T20 World Cup or ODI World Cup. Without Virat Kohli, the Indian team cannot go. We need Virat Kohli, 100 percent. I still believe Virat Kohli should be honoured like how Sachin Tendulkar was in 2011. " He added, "The Indian team should win the World Cup for Virat. It will be a great thing for Virat Kohli." At present, Kohli is gearing up for IPL 2024 where he will represent the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Talking about his future in the shortest format, he came back into the T20I setup early this year (after 14 months), during the Afghanistan series. Given his impressive record in T20 WC as the leading scorer with 1,141 runs at 131.3, it is unlikely that he will be left out of the Indian squad. Notably, all the participating teams have to announce their provisional squad by early May.

Impossible to be without Virat Kohli at T20 World Cup 2024: Kris Srikkanth slams rumour-mongers

t20-world-cup-2024

T20 World Cup 2024, News on T20 World Cup 2024, stories on T20 World Cup 2024, articles on T20 World Cup 2024, T20 World Cup 2024 stories at Wion, T20 World Cup 2024 news, T20 World Cup 2024 latest news

t20 world-cup-2024