Virat Kohli’s T20 World Cup Selection in Jeopardy: Reports Indicate Possible Snub
Reports suggest that Virat Kohli’s inclusion in the T20 World Cup squad is uncertain, with chief selector Ajit Agarkar expected to make a decisive call. The BCCI has delegated the decision to the selection committee and team management, indicating a willingness to make tough choices ahead of the tournament.
Kohli’s last T20I series against Afghanistan in January saw him scoring 29 & 0 in two matches. The selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, reportedly discussed a shift in the T20I approach with Kohli before the series. The slow wickets in the West Indies are considered unfavorable for Kohli, and the selectors are exploring options for younger players like Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Tilak Varma, and Suryakumar Yadav.
The upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) will play a crucial role in determining Kohli’s fate, and a stellar performance might be necessary for his selection. BCCI secretary Jay Shah confirmed Rohit Sharma as the captain for the T20 World Cup but remained silent on Kohli’s role, stating, “We will discuss Virat’s role in due course.”
Selectors are reportedly considering the return of Hardik Pandya, who has been out of action since the October ODI World Cup. Young talents like Rinku Singh, with an impressive strike rate of 176.23 in 15 T20 internationals, are gaining attention. The wicketkeeper’s position is still under debate, with KL Rahul emerging as a potential option despite fitness concerns.
The provisional squads for the T20 World Cup must be submitted to the ICC by the first week of May. India, placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, USA, and Canada, is set to begin its campaign against Canada on June 5. The selectors are expected to make bold decisions to shape a competitive squad for the tournament.
