The BCCI’s announcement of the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 has sparked lively discussions among fans and analysts alike. While the official squad boasts a strong balance, cricket commentator Harsha Bhogle took to Twitter to showcase the depth of Indian cricket talent by proposing an alternate 15-member team.
The official Indian squad includes Rohit Sharma (captain), Hardik Pandya (vice-captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammad Siraj. Notably, promising youngster Rinku Singh who is impressive in the IPL 2024 was named in the reserves.
Bhogle’s proposed alternate squad offers a glimpse into the immense talent pool India possesses. It features openers like Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, and KL Rahul alongside the exciting young finisher Tilak Varma. Rinku Singh, who many expected to be included, also finds a spot in this alternate team.
The bowling attack in Bhogle’s proposal boasts experience with Ashwin and Avesh Khan alongside young pace options like Sandeep Sharma, Khaleel Ahmed, and the mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy. The reserves for this alternate team include Rajat Patidar, the left-arm pacer Natarajan, the all-rounder Krunal Pandya, and the explosive batsman Ishan Kishan.
Bhogle even hinted at the possibility of a third potential squad built around talented youngsters like Riyan Parag, Deepak Chahar, Ravi Bishnoi, and Washington Sundar. This highlights the sheer depth and talent available to Indian selectors.
How does the alternate 15 look?
Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Ashwin, Avesh Khan, Sandeep Sharma, Khaleel Ahmed and Varun Chakravarthy. To complete the 15, Rajat Patidar, Natarajan, Krunal Pandya and Ishan Kishan.
You could create a third too built around Riyan Parag, Deepak Chahar, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Sen, Jitesh Sharma, Sai Sudharsan, Rahul Tewatia, Tushar Deshpande, Nehal Wadhera, Nitish Rana……..
With the T20 World Cup fast approaching, starting June 1st co-hosted by the USA and West Indies, India isn’t the only team unveiling their squad. New Zealand, England, and South Africa have already announced their players, further igniting the pre-tournament buzz.
India’s official squad is undoubtedly strong, but Harsha Bhogle’s alternate proposition serves as a reminder of India’s exceptional player pool. This abundance of talent ensures fierce competition for spots and bodes well for the future of Indian cricket.
Also, see:
When will Pakistan unveil T20 World Cup 2024 squad?
