India started their T20 World Cup 2021 campaign on the wrong note. They lost for the first time in a World Cup (across formats) to Pakistan. The defeat has raised many eyebrows over the team selected in the first place. India probably would have been better served had they picked in-form IPL players who excelled this season. It would have given India the much-needed spark heading into the tournament. Here are Players Who Could Have Been In Indian Squad.
We look at 5 Players Who Could Have Been In Indian Squad
#5 Mohammad Siraj
Mohammad Siraj had a breakthrough IPL season this year. He was magnificent in the Indian leg. Siraj picked up wickets both upfront and at the death in the first phase of IPL 2021. Despite him not being lethal with the new ball in UAE, Siraj exerted pressure at the top. He continued his sizzling death overs form even in the UAE. Siraj could have been an ideal 3rd seamer but unfortunately, he isn’t even part of the reserves.
#4 Ruturaj Gaikwad
Ruturaj Gaikwad won the orange cap this season. He smashed 600+ runs at a stunning strike rate. Gaikwad played many irresistible knocks right through the IPL. He looked at ease both while playing pace and spin. Gaikwad could well have been drafted in India’s squad but he missed out, unfortunately. His presence could have added more assurance to India’s batting lineup.
#3 Avesh Khan
Avesh Khan was in top form this season. He at times overshadowed the likes of Kagiso Rabada. Khan troubled the best of the batsmen with his pace, skill, and accuracy. He wasn’t just good with the new ball but was also exceptional at the death. It was his spell that arguably knocked out defending champions, Mumbai Indians, from the competition. Khan would have been a better choice than either Bhuvneshwar Kumar or Mohammad Shami.
#2 Venkatesh Iyer
Venkatesh Iyer proved to be KKR’s major impact player in the UAE. He starred with both bat and the ball. Iyer’s aggression at the top helped KKR dominate many teams during the 2nd leg. His ability to bowl a couple of overs with the ball came in handy too. Iyer has been called upon as a net player. He could prove to be an ideal replacement for Hardik Pandya if he is ruled out from the tournament.
#1 Harshal Patel
Harshal Patel became the first Indian uncapped bowler to bag the purple cap. He ended with a record-equalling 32 wickets in a single season. Patel’s slower balls were almost impossible to get away. He picked wickets not just at the death but right through the 20 overs. Patel could well have proven to be India’s point of difference in the World Cup. But he has been relegated to India’s net squad.
Also read: No Doubt Pakistan Will Be Well Supported In UAE: Williamson
