Sanjay Manjrekar reveals T20 World Cup 2024 squad, excludes Virat Kohli

As the excitement builds towards the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, cricket fans around the globe are brimming with predictions and anticipation for the marquee tournament co-hosted by the USA and West Indies in June. Former Indian batting legend Sanjay Manjrekar, renowned for his sharp analysis, has weighed in on the ideal squad composition for India’s World Cup campaign.

Sanjay Manjrekar reveals T20 World Cup 2024 squad, excludes Virat Kohli

Manjrekar expressed optimism about India’s chances, envisioning a powerful batting lineup led by skipper Rohit Sharma opening alongside the rising star Yashasvi Jaiswal. The middle order features the in-form Suryakumar Yadav and the explosive wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant.

In a surprising turn, Manjrekar included Sanju Samson and KL Rahul in his squad, while omitting Hardik Pandya due to his recent struggles in the IPL. The spin department features the resurgent Kuldeep Yadav alongside the wily Yuzvendra Chahal, while the pace attack revolves around the lethal trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Avesh Khan. Manjrekar also included the promising young fast bowler Harshit Rana from KKR in his picks.

Highlighting Kuldeep Yadav’s impressive return to form, Manjrekar praised the left-arm wrist spinner for his peak performance and vital contributions. Yadav’s exceptional showing in IPL 2024, where he has bagged 12 wickets in just six matches, strengthens his case as a key player for the national team.

Sanjay Manjrekar’s India Squad for T20 World Cup 2024:

  1. Rohit Sharma (c)
  2. Yashasvi Jaiswal
  3. Sanju Samson
  4. Suryakumar Yadav
  5. Rishabh Pant (wk)
  6. KL Rahul
  7. Ravindra Jadeja
  8. Kuldeep Yadav
  9. Yuzvendra Chahal
  10. Jasprit Bumrah
  11. Mohammed Siraj
  12. Avesh Khan
  13. Harshit Rana
  14. Mayank Yadav
  15. Krunal Pandya

Manjrekar’s squad reflects India’s quest for T20 World Cup success, blending experienced players with promising newcomers. It strikes a perfect balance between seasoned campaigners and emerging talents. This thoughtful composition aims to maximize India’s chances of clinching the coveted title.