• Sportzyverse
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• 05/17/2024
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As Team India prepares to end its 11-year ICC title drought with the upcoming T20 World Cup, former cricketer Robin Uthappa has voiced strong opinions about the squad selection. Speaking during a pre-match show on JioCinema, Uthappa suggested that senior players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should have stepped aside after the last T20 World Cup, allowing younger talents to take centre stage.

A Controversial Take

Reflecting on his own experiences and the evolution of the Indian team, Uthappa drew parallels with the 2007 T20 World Cup. Back then, senior players like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly, and Anil Kumble had opted out, paving the way for youngsters to shine. Scott Styris, a former New Zealand all-rounder, prompted Uthappa to consider whether a similar approach should have been taken following the 2022 T20 World Cup.

Uthappa didn’t hold back: “I’m gonna catch a lot of flak for this, but I’ll take it. I think they should’ve moved on after the previous World Cup itself. The senior players have had their go, and these guys are showing true potential.”

Uthappa emphasised that emerging players, particularly Shubman Gill, should have been given a chance to showcase their talents on the world stage. “He (Gill) should be part of any World Cup right now. His potential, ability, hunger in his own game, and what he wants to achieve are tremendous. The opportunity for all of that should be present,” he said.

Despite his strong performances, Gill was left out of the main squad and named among the reserves alongside Rinku Singh, Avesh Khan, and Khaleel Ahmed. Rinku Singh’s exclusion was particularly surprising, given his regular appearances in T20I matches over the past year.

Also read Indian Squad for T20 World Cup Announced: In From Rishabh Pant, Dube, Samson Earn a Spot

India’s T20 World Cup Squad

Rohit Sharma will lead the Indian team for the T20 World Cup, with Hardik Pandya as his deputy. The squad also includes Virat Kohli and the returning Rishabh Pant. However, the absence of Shubman Gill and Rinku Singh has sparked debate among fans and experts.

Uthappa’s comments come at a critical juncture, as India gears up to face Ireland on June 5 and arch-rivals Pakistan on June 8 in New York. The group stage also features matches against hosts USA and Canada.

Uthappa’s call for a change in approach underscores a broader conversation about the balance between experience and youth in international cricket. He believes that younger players who have consistently performed in the IPL should be given opportunities to prove themselves at the highest level.

“It’s interesting to see how these teams will manage it in the future. India, especially, will need to find ways to overcome this mounting pressure if they want to succeed in upcoming events,” Uthappa added, highlighting the need for mental toughness and composure in knockout matches.