“Whenever we are putting teams together, the main message is what we put out there, not who we put out there.”
That statement from Team India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate perfectly captures the mindset of this management group. Reputation no longer guarantees selection. Familiar names don’t automatically walk into squads. The only priority is building the right combination — one that serves the team’s balance and match requirements.
And that philosophy is now being put to the test.
With Washington Sundar likely to be ruled out of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, India are staring at a crucial decision. This isn’t about filling a vacancy. It’s about replacing a role — a spin-bowling all-rounder who offers control, flexibility, and depth.
Here are the strongest contenders to step in.
Shahbaz Ahmed
If the selectors are looking for a straight, like-for-like option, Shahbaz Ahmed stands out immediately. A left-arm spinner who can bat with responsibility, he already has international experience, which reduces the risk factor.
More importantly, his recent domestic form has been outstanding. In the latest Vijay Hazare Trophy, Shahbaz scored a century and followed it up with three half-centuries. That’s not just form — that’s confidence and consistency, two qualities that matter immensely at a global tournament.
Krunal Pandya
Krunal Pandya is a name many had started to overlook — until IPL 2025 happened.
He proved that he is far from finished. While his batting down the order adds depth, his biggest asset remains his bowling. Seventeen wickets in the season and an economy rate of just 7.4 in a high-scoring league underline his value. He brings experience, composure, and an understanding of pressure situations — traits that become priceless in World Cups.
Ayush Badoni
This is the bold option.
By bringing Ayush Badoni into the ODI setup, the team management has already signalled long-term faith in him. That move suggests he is firmly part of their future plans. Translating that trust into the T20 format wouldn’t be surprising.
Badoni offers fearless batting, flexibility across roles, and the kind of modern approach that T20 cricket demands. He may not be the obvious choice, but he could be the impactful one.
Players like Axar Patel and Riyan Parag have been left out of this discussion due to ongoing fitness concerns. At this stage of preparation, the management cannot afford uncertainty or last-minute setbacks.
This selection call isn’t about popularity or past reputation. It’s about balance, roles, and clarity of purpose.
So, the debate is wide open. Should India go with the safety of Shahbaz? The experience of Krunal? Or the forward-looking gamble of Badoni?
