New Delhi: After the victorious South African tour, the spotlight shifts to the future of Indian cricket’s stalwarts – Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Both players, absent from T20Is for over a year, express eagerness to participate in the T20 World Cup scheduled for June in the USA and West Indies. However, the selection committee, led by Ajit Agarkar, faces the dilemma of accommodating both in the squad.
Selector’s Dilemma:
Reports suggest that the selection committee is hesitant about having both Rohit and Kohli in the playing XI, citing concerns about team balance. Chairman of selectors, Ajit Agarkar, recently met with the veterans during the South African tour, where they made themselves available for selection. However, external factors complicate the decision, and it may ultimately fall on the shoulders of BCCI’s secretary, Jay Shah.
Team Composition Concerns:
The potential inclusion of both Rohit and Kohli raises questions about team composition. The absence of a left-hander in the top order becomes a concern if both are included. The selectors need to decide on the batting order, considering players like Shubman Gill, Suryakumar Yadav, and Hardik Pandya.
External factors, such as promotional efforts by ICC featuring Kohli in New York and promotional activities by Mumbai Indians with Rohit Sharma, contribute to the external pressure on the decision. Former BCCI officials emphasize the need for Jay Shah to empower Agarkar’s committee in making a balanced decision.
Upcoming Series Against Afghanistan:
The imminent three-match T20 series against Afghanistan adds urgency to the decision-making process. The team balance, batting order, and inclusion of players like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan add complexity to the selection.
As the selectors grapple with the challenge of accommodating both cricket maestros, the final decision awaits the return of Ajit Agarkar to India. The cricketing community eagerly anticipates the announcement of the squad, with a keen eye on the balance and composition of the team.
