The question of whether Rishabh Pant should be included in the T20 World Cup 2023 is quite intriguing at the moment. On one hand, it can be said that Rishabh Pant has the X-factor, meaning he has the ability to turn the game around even in adverse situations.
Another significant point is that within the Indian cricket fraternity, both locally and internationally, there are fans of Rishabh Pant. So, in such a scenario, for India, there is an atmosphere created by his presence.
It remains to be seen whether Rishabh Pant will play in the T20 World Cup 2024, as it seems his name has been almost confirmed. There’s speculation about him possibly being appointed as the vice-captain.
However, the question arises whether a player’s performance in just the IPL can be given importance. If we talk about the Caribbean pitches, it’s evident from the series between West Indies and England that spinners also play a crucial role.
While runs are scored, the conditions favor spinners during semi-time pitches. Rishabh Pant’s gameplay against spinners isn’t as strong, as seen in the match between Kolkata and Delhi.
Rishabh Pant has a weak game against spinners
His attacking style of play sometimes backfires, like when he attempted to hit Varun Chakravarthy, resulting in an easy catch at short cover. So, there should be a discussion on what role Rishabh Pant will play for the Indian team.
Assuming he plays as a finisher, it means players like Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube might not be as assured in the team. It’s not feasible for players like Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, and Rishabh Pant to play together in the same team.
Efforts are being made to include Rahul in the team. It’s almost confirmed that Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal will open for the Indian team, with Virat Kohli batting at number 3 and Suryakumar Yadav at number 4.
Too many finishers are creating a hassle in team India
Ishan Kishan is not finding a place. If Suryakumar Yadav is playing, then the Indian team’s setup is almost certain. After that, it’s the turn of the wicketkeeper-batsman. Sanju Samson’s name is being considered for the T20 World Cup.
Now, the discussion shifts to the finisher role. Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, and Rishabh Pant are the four players whose names are being thrown around, but Rishabh Pant can’t bat in the top order.
After that, if India wants to lean towards a spinner and all-rounder, then Axar Patel might also get a chance because spinners get assistance on Caribbean pitches.
