Sanjay Manjrekars perspective is that the selection of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the 2024 T20 World Cup signaled the selectors inclination towards seasoned players rather than just relying on youth. It appears that India erred on the side of caution by entrusting experienced stalwarts for the prestigious ICC event.
The Men in Blue undefeated so far at the 2024 T20 World Cup are showcasing their extraordinary prowess on the field. They conquered Ireland Pakistan and the United States of America (USA) in the group stage setting the tone for dominant victories over Afghanistan and Bangladesh during the Super 8 round.
In his Hindustan Times column, Sanjay Manjrekar wrote on India’s roster for the showcase event:
“It felt as though the Indian selectors played it safe with their selections for the T20 World Cup squad. In picking Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, it was a clear message that they were not yet ready to commit to the youth; they still wanted some experience around for an ICC event.”
Sanjay Manjrekar
Manjrekar stated that, while India has selected experienced players for the 2024 T20 World Cup, they have continued to play with an aggressive attitude, citing Kohli’s desire to score runs at a rapid pace rather than anchoring the innings. He added:
“The brand of cricket India are playing in this WC is one we have never seen before, and something we are trying to come to terms with. To Virat’s credit, for someone who doesn’t like getting out (a trait that can be a weakness in T20 cricket), he has also committed himself to taking risks regularly and seems okay, as of now, with getting out while taking those risks.”
Sanjay Manjrekar
Both Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have underperformed. The Men in Blue would like the two experienced campaigners to join them in the tournament’s crucial final stages.
“The brand of cricket on show is going to be modern and dynamic” – Sanjay Manjrekar on India’s approach with the bat
Sanjay Manjrekar stated that, despite opting for the safe choice of having veteran players in the roster, the Indian team’s approach and style of cricket have been extremely modern.
The cricketer turned commentator elaborated:
“The way India have batted so far conveys that even though selections have taken a more traditional and cautious route, the brand of cricket on show is going to be modern and dynamic.”
Sanjay Manjrekar
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli played with confidence from the outset of the recently finished match against Bangladesh. Rohit Sharma left after a quick 23 runs, while Virat Kohli showed flashes of good form with a 37-run effort.
India is on course to collide with Australia in their ultimate Super 8 round encounter. The anticipated showdown is slated to unfold at the prestigious Daren Sammy National Cricket Stadium in St. Lucia on Monday June 24.