The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to make crucial decisions regarding veteran stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's roadmap to the T20 World Cup 2024 following the conclusion of the ongoing ODI series against South Africa.
According to sources within the cricket board, the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar will convene after the South Africa ODIs to chart out a specific plan for both senior batters. The primary focus will be on ensuring they get adequate game time in the T20 format ahead of the global tournament scheduled for June in the West Indies and USA.
Game Time Strategy for Senior Pros
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli haven't featured in T20 Internationals since India's heartbreaking defeat against England in the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup. Their absence from the shortest format has sparked widespread speculation about their future in T20Is.
"Once the South Africa ODIs are over, a decision will be taken on how to give Rohit and Kohli sufficient game time," revealed a BCCI official. "The selectors want them to be match-ready and in form before the World Cup."
Shubman Gill's Role in the Mix
The discussion will also encompass young opener Shubman Gill, who has been in sensational form across formats. With Gill establishing himself as a premier batsman, the team management needs to carefully balance the inclusion of experienced campaigners with the rising talent.
Gill's consistent performances have made him an indispensable part of India's white-ball setup, creating a pleasant selection headache for the think tank. The management must devise a strategy that optimally utilizes both the established stars and emerging talents.
T20 World Cup Preparations Intensify
India's next T20 assignment is a three-match series against Afghanistan in January 2024, which could potentially mark the return of Sharma and Kohli to the T20I setup. However, the final decision will be taken only after thorough deliberation by the selection committee.
The BCCI is leaving no stone unturned in ensuring the Indian team enters the T20 World Cup with the best possible combination and adequate preparation. The coming weeks are crucial as the selectors finalize their strategy for the marquee event.
