Sanjay Manjrekar Drops Virat Kohli From His India T20 World Cup 2024 Squad

As cricket enthusiasts worldwide gear up for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024, anticipation hangs thick in the air, with speculations and predictions swirling among experts and fans alike. Among the voices adding fuel to this fervor is none other than former Indian batting maestro, Sanjay Manjrekar. With the tournament set to unfold across the shores of the USA and the West Indies in June, Manjrekar recently shared his vision for the ideal India squad on Star Sports. In Manjrekar's blueprint for success, the Indian team boasts a formidable lineup led by the seasoned Rohit Sharma at the top, complemented by the youthful flair of Yashasvi Jaiswal as his opening partner. The heart of the batting order beats strong with the likes of Suryakumar Yadav, while the electric Rishabh Pant takes charge behind the stumps, adding both vigor and stability to the team's core.

No Virat Kohli in Sanjay Manjrekar's India squad for 2024 T20 World Cup?

Yet, Manjrekar's selections weren't without their share of surprises. In a bold move, he opted for the inclusion of Sanju Samson, KL Rahul, and Krunal Pandya, alongside the ever-reliable Ravindra Jadeja. Notably absent from his lineup was the explosive Hardik Pandya, whose struggles in the ongoing IPL seemingly weighed against his selection. However, the biggest surprise is the exclusion of Virat Kohli. With Manjrekar's insights stirring conversations and debates across the cricketing spectrum, the stage is set for an enthralling showdown as India sets its sights on reclaiming T20 cricket's most coveted prize, adding yet another chapter to its storied cricketing legacy. 

In the spin department, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal are the stalwarts, bringing their craftiness to the fore. Spearheading the pace attack are the formidable trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and the emerging talent Avesh Khan. Notably, the experienced commentator has earmarked a spot for KKR's rising star, Harshit Rana, adding depth to the pace battery.

Manjrekar's admiration for Kuldeep Yadav is evident, hailing him at the pinnacle of his career. The left-arm wrist spinner's stellar performance in IPL 2024, amassing 12 wickets in six games, places him among the contenders for the top wicket-taker accolade. Since his resurgence in the Indian squad, Yadav has been a game-changer, consistently delivering crucial breakthroughs that tilt the game in his team's favor. His resurgence signifies a return to form and confidence, establishing him as a vital asset in India's bowling arsenal.

"Yes. And this is perhaps Kuldeep Yadav at his peak with regards to his skills, his confidence. You can see now he's out there like a Bumrah or Chahal at his peak. He is commanding that kind of respect. He looks comfortable with the responsibility and champions, you know, those breaks and those moments that you are seeking at the right time," said former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar in a recent interview.

Sanjay Manjrekar's India squad for T20 World Cup 2024

Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Avesh Khan, Harshit Rana, Mayank Yadav, Krunal Pandya.