With the T20 World Cup 2024 in the United States and West Indies approaching, the selection headache for the Indian team management is intensifying. Former Australian cricketers Aaron Finch and Tom Moody offered their picks for India’s 15-member squad, highlighting the ongoing debate surrounding KL Rahul’s inclusion.
KL Rahul vs Sanju Samson
While both Finch and Moody agreed on the core of the team, their picks for the wicket-keeper’s role differed significantly. Moody opted for the experience of KL Rahul, who brings additional batting solidity and wicket-keeping flexibility. Finch, on the other hand, preferred the explosiveness of Sanju Samson. The Rajasthan Royals captain is known for his aggressive top-order batting.
This selection dilemma reflects the abundance of talent India possesses behind the stumps. Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Sanju Samson, Dinesh Karthik, and Ishan Kishan are all strong contenders for the wicketkeeper’s role, each offering unique skillsets.
Another Point of Disagreement: Pace vs Spin
Finch and Moody differed on another crucial aspect – the spin attack. Finch opted for an extra pacer, Avesh Khan, to placed his faith on his skills. Moody, however, went for leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal to exploit potential bowling-friendly conditions.
Aaron Finch’s Indian squad for T20 World Cup
Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (WK), Rinku Singh, Sanju Samson (WK), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, Mohd Siraj
Tom Moody’s Indian squad for T20 World Cup
Rohit Sharma (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant (WK), Rinku Singh, KL Rahul (WK), Shivam Dube, Ravindra Jadeja, Hardik Pandya, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Mohd Siraj