Since MS Dhoni’s retirement in 2019, India has been searching for a reliable wicketkeeper in the T20 format. Over the past year, three players – Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, and Jitesh Sharma – have been given opportunities behind the stumps. Ishan Kishan has featured in the most T20Is in the last 12 months, while Jitesh Sharma has been India’s preferred choice in recent series against South Africa and Afghanistan. With the T20 World Cup approaching, the competition for the wicketkeeper’s slot is intensifying. However, the return of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli poses a challenge for Ishan Kishan’s place in the top order, as he has primarily been used in that role. On the other hand, Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma have operated in the middle-order, with the latter being utilized as a finisher. India’s head coach Rahul Dravid has acknowledged the various options available, including KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, and has emphasized the importance of the upcoming IPL in determining the final selection. The team management will closely monitor the performances of these players and assess their fitness, particularly in the case of Rishabh Pant, who is recovering from an injury. Beyond the wicketkeepers, players like Shivam Dube, Washington Sundar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Tilak Varma will also be closely observed. The IPL will play a crucial role in shaping the team composition for the T20 World Cup. Rahul Dravid has expressed his satisfaction with the players who have showcased their skills and believes they have the capability to address the team’s requirements. However, he has also acknowledged the need for addressing certain areas and highlighted the limited opportunities for the national team to play together before the World Cup. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of closely watching the performances of the players in the IPL and identifying the specific slots that need to be filled in the team.
Race for Indian Wicketkeeper’s Slot Heats Up for T20 World Cup
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