Gill’s appointment as vice-captain of India’s T20I team has made the wicket-keeper selection for the T20 World Cup a complex puzzle. It’s not just about one player’s form. It’s about balancing batting roles, recent performances, and the return of veterans. Two players, Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma, are in the spotlight. But others are in the race too.
Sanju Samson: The Top-Order Problem
Sanju Samson has made a strong case this year. As an opener, he scored 522 runs in 17 T20I matches. His average is 32.2, with a strike rate of 178.76. He hit three T20I hundreds in one year, a record for an Indian batter. This seemed to lock his spot at the top.
But Shubman Gill’s return as vice-captain changes things. Gill will likely open. This leaves Samson in a tough spot. He could bat lower, but his middle-order stats are weak—an average of 18.83 and a strike rate of 124.17. If he doesn’t fit the top order, he might lose his spot. Samson’s career often feels like this: great talent, but always on the edge of the team.
Jitesh Sharma: The Finisher’s Chance
Jitesh Sharma offers something different. He’s a finisher, perfect for number six or seven. His T20I stats show an average of 14.29 but a strike rate of 147.06. This proves his aggressive style. His IPL and domestic form has been up and down. Still, his ability to hit big in the lower order is valuable. With Gill likely opening, the team might want a finisher like Jitesh.
The Veterans and a New Contender
The race isn’t just between Samson and Jitesh. Other big names are in the mix:
- Rishabh Pant: Pant is recovering from a foot injury from a Test series. His history of strong comebacks keeps him in the conversation. If he regains fitness and form, he could steal a spot.
- KL Rahul & Ishan Kishan: Both have struggled in T20Is. Rahul’s low strike rate has drawn criticism. Ishan’s IPL form has been inconsistent. Neither is a top choice now.
- Dhruv Jurel: Jurel is new but promising. He impressed in Tests but has little T20I experience. His IPL finishing skills and calm nature make him a future option.
The Road Ahead
The Asia Cup and upcoming series will be key. Selectors must choose between an explosive keeper-batter for the top order or a specialist finisher. The competition is fierce. Whoever wins the gloves will face huge pressure. The nation’s hopes will rest on them.
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