The Indian Express reported that India captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Rahul Dravid, and chief selector Ajit Agarkar met for two hours in Mumbai last week to discuss the T20 World Cup squad. The primary focus of their discussion was Hardik Pandya‘s place in the team, given concerns about his bowling fitness. Though the final 15-man squad won’t be selected till the conclusion of IPL 2024, the meeting indicated that Pandya’s spot is in doubt for the global tournament.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik is under a lot pressure due to his captaincy and poor performance. He has scored just 131 runs in six matches. There have been concerns about his middle overs strategy, as he has not been able to score at the desired strike rate, with the exception against RCB in which he accumulated 21* off just 6 balls.

Rohit, Dravid, and Agarkar are more concerned about Pandya’s bowling than his batting. While India have many players who can fulfill Pandya’s role as a batter in T20Is, the teams needs a seamer, who can bat. This dual skill set make Pandya a key asset.

Hardik Pandya has also struggled with bowling this season, lacking both consistency and effectiveness with the ball. He has only bowled his full quota of overs twice in MI’s first six matches. He didn’t bowl against Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals. Pandya delivered just one over against RCB. Hardik conceded 43 runs from his three over against Chennai Super Kings. He was hit for three consecutive sixes by MS Dhoni in the final over.

In 11 overs, Pandya has taken three wickets and conceded runs at an economy rate of 12.

As per sources, the selectors will only consider Pandya for the T20 World Cup if he bowls in the IPL

If India don’t select Pandya for the T20 World Cup, Shivam Dube appears to be the favourite choice. Dube has demonstrated sufficient batting ability to impress selectors. As a left-handed hitter, he can provide momentum to the innings during the middle overs. Dube has not bowled in the 17th season.

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