Harbhajan’s T20 World Cup Squad: Hardik Pandya, Shubman Gill, and Siraj Dropped

Despite the captivating stage set by IPL 2024, all eyes are eagerly fixed on the upcoming T20 World Cup. Marking its debut in the USA and returning to the West Indies after a hiatus since 2010, this ICC event promises a spectacular cricketing extravaganza. For Team India, it presents a golden opportunity to break their 11-year drought in ICC trophies, especially the coveted World Cup. Despite numerous opportunities over the years, India, often hailed as favorites, has faltered in crucial moments, failing to meet expectations.

Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has made some notable exclusions from his 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup. Among them are all-rounder Hardik Pandya and pacer Mohammad Siraj. The final squad announcement by the selectors is anticipated around April 27 or 28, just before the May 1 deadline. Other prominent players missing from Bhajji’s lineup include KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Shubman Gill, and Shreyas Iyer.

Hardik Pandya’s lackluster performance in the IPL, failing to deliver with both bat and ball despite his comeback from injury, has been disappointing. Similarly, Shubman Gill, captain of the Gujarat Titans, hasn’t lived up to expectations this season. KL Rahul, skipper of the Lucknow Super Giants, faces scrutiny over his strike rate in T20 cricket, contributing to his omission. Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer, representing Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders respectively, also find themselves excluded from Harbhajan’s squad due to various reasons. Mohammad Siraj’s dismal performance in IPL 2024 has led to his exclusion from contention.

Harbhajan Singh’s selected batting order showcases a formidable lineup of experienced and in-form batters including Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, and SKY. The role of finishers has been entrusted to Rinku Singh and Shivam Dube.

In the wicketkeeping department, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson have been named, while Ravindra Jadeja represents the all-rounder category. The spin department features the duo of Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal alongside Jadeja, forming a potent combination. Jasprit Bumrah, Avesh Khan, Arshdeep Singh, and Mayank Yadav have been selected as the pacers in Singh’s squad.