Parthiv Patel: T20I Series Not Decisive for World Cup Squad

Introduction

In the midst of the ongoing three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, former Indian cricketer Parthiv Patel has debunked the notion that this series serves as a decisive factor in World Cup squad selection. Patel emphasizes that the inclusion of cricket stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the series itself indicates their participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Inclusion Implies World Cup Plans

Patel dismisses the idea that player performance in this series will impact their chances of World Cup selection, especially for seasoned players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Once selected for the series, Patel asserts that it implies these players are already part of the World Cup plans. Despite Rohit Sharma’s recent challenges, Patel highlights that being chosen for the series demonstrates their pivotal role in the T20 World Cup.

“I don’t see this series as a selection series for the World Cup. I don’t think any player performing or not will impact their chances of World Cup selection, especially when you are talking about Rohit Sharma or Virat Kohli,” Patel stated.

Rohit Sharma's Form and World Cup Prospects

In the first two matches of the series, India secured convincing six-wicket victories in successful chases. Rohit Sharma, returning to T20 cricket after an absence of over a year, faced setbacks with two consecutive ducks. However, Patel believes that these outings won’t significantly impact Sharma’s chances of World Cup selection.

“For Rohit Sharma personally, he would like to score runs. He likes to set the tone, and if he gets in, he would like to make it a big one,” Patel explained.

Saba Karim's Insight on Team Composition

Looking ahead to the final T20I in Bengaluru, former cricketer Saba Karim suggests that India should once again opt to chase the target to assess the team’s batting depth. Karim proposes testing players like Axar Patel and Washington Sundar in the middle order to evaluate the team’s composition, especially with the impending return of Hardik Pandya.

“I hope they do that in Bengaluru. Not only to put the bowlers under scanner but also to check the depth of your batting. Players like Axar Patel and Washington Sundar, who come down the order, may get a look in. Then you can understand if you want to play three seamers or spinners in the playing XI once Hardik Pandya comes in,” Karim stated.

Final Thoughts: An Opportunity for Experimentation

With India already securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, the final T20I against Afghanistan presents an opportunity for experimentation and evaluation ahead of the T20 World Cup. It’s a chance for the team management to fine-tune the squad and strategize for the upcoming global cricket extravaganza.

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