Team India began its campaign in the T20 World Cup on Wednesday with a match against Ireland in New York. However, Rohit Sharma threw a curveball in the playing XI, leaving out the in-form spinner Kuldeep Yadav. Kuldeep was widely expected to be a key player for India following his stellar performance in the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL).
Kuldeep Yadav’s Impressive Form
Kuldeep shone brightly in the 2024 IPL season, picking up 16 wickets in 11 matches for the Delhi Capitals. His impressive form carried into India’s warm-up match against Bangladesh, where he again delivered a strong performance. Despite this, the team management opted for a three-man pace attack consisting of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Arshdeep Singh, with Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja handling the spin duties.
Gavaskar’s Surprise and Fan Reactions
Former India captain and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar expressed his surprise at the decision to drop Kuldeep. “I’m surprised. Kuldeep bowled really well in the IPL,” Gavaskar said following the toss in New York. His sentiments were echoed by many fans who took to social media to voice their confusion and disappointment.
Rohit’s Explanation
While Rohit Sharma did not directly address the exclusion of Kuldeep, he mentioned that the team’s selection strategy was influenced by their performance in the warm-up match against Bangladesh, played at the same venue. “We played on a similar pitch and do know what to expect a little bit. I know it’s going to be slightly different from what we’re used to. But that’s what the sport is,” Rohit explained.
Fan Reactions
Fans were quick to react to Kuldeep’s exclusion, labeling the decision as “madness” and questioning the team management’s rationale. Many felt that Kuldeep’s recent performances warranted a place in the playing XI, and his omission was seen as a puzzling move.
India’s T20 World Cup Campaign
Despite the controversy, Team India aims to make a strong start in the T20 World Cup. Rohit Sharma’s men are eager to end an 11-year drought of ICC titles. The group stage is expected to be relatively straightforward for the experienced Indian team, with the match against arch-rivals Pakistan likely being their most challenging fixture before the Super 8s.
India last tasted ICC tournament glory in 2013, when Mahendra Singh Dhoni led the team to victory in the Champions Trophy. With a mix of seasoned veterans and promising talent, the current squad hopes to replicate that success and bring home another ICC title.
