Cricket fans need not worry. The IPL might be over, but the action continues. The focus now shifts from the Indian Premier League to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
Like always, Team India is one of the favourites to win the T20 World Cup. The fans want it dearly, even the players do. This is a good time to introspect Team India’s 15-member-squad and their current form, on the basis of the IPL going into the ICC event.
So, here we go then.
1. Rohit Sharma [Captain]
First comes the captain – Rohit Sharma. Mumbai Indians finished at the bottom of the table. Like his team, Rohit also had an indifferent IPL 2024 season.
The first half produced consistent runs, and also a century against Chennai Super Kings at Wankhede. However, the fizz died down in the second half, especially in the knockout matches for the 5-time-IPL champions.
With 417 runs from 14 matches, at a strike rate of 150, with a mere century and one half-century, MI fans wanted more from their Hitman. Statistically, the numbers look good, but given the high standards Rohit has set for himself, he would consider this performance as a below par one.
Both Rohit Sharma and his fans would be hoping that he did save some big runs/knocks for the upcoming T20 World Cup. This could also be Rohit Sharma’s last ICC event for Team India, and he would like to make every opportunity count for the Blues.
– Rating: 5/10
2. Hardik Pandya [Vice Captain]
Hardik Pandya’s IPL 2024 season was marked by struggles both with the ball and the bat. His bowling was particularly expensive, conceding 387 runs in 14 matches at a high economy rate of 10.75, and he only managed to take 9 wickets, showing his inability to control the run flow or consistently take wickets. With the bat, Pandya was underwhelming, scoring just 216 runs at an average of 18.00 and a strike rate of 125.71. His highest score was 42, indicating a lack of significant contributions throughout the season.
These stats highlight a tough season for Pandya, underlining the need for a significant turnaround in form as he heads into the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where his performance will be crucial for India’s middle-order stability and overall success.
– Rating: 3/10
3. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli’s IPL 2024 performance was nothing short of spectacular. He amassed 741 runs in 14 matches at an impressive average of 57.00 and a strike rate of 140.50.
Kohli’s consistency was evident as he scored eight half-centuries and two centuries, with his highest score being an unbeaten 112. His ability to anchor the innings while maintaining a brisk scoring rate made him the standout batsman of the tournament.
This remarkable performance not only earned him the Orange Cap but also reaffirmed his status as one of the best T20 batsmen in the world.
Heading into the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Kohli’s form will be crucial for India’s success, and his stats from IPL 2024 provide a strong foundation for optimism.
– Rating: 9/10
4. Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav’s IPL 2024 season showcased his potential despite some inconsistency. He scored 480 runs in 16 matches at an average of 32.00 and an impressive strike rate of 148.75.
SKY managed to hit five half-centuries, with his highest score being 87 not out. His ability to accelerate the scoring and play innovative shots made him a vital asset for his team. Despite his occasional lapses in form, his overall performance with the bat was commendable.
As he gears up for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, Virat would be expected to deliver match-winning performances, especially in crucial games against top teams like Pakistan and during the knockout stages.
– Rating: 6/10
5. Rishabh Pant [Wicket-Keeper]
Rishabh Pant’s IPL 2024 performance marked a significant comeback, demonstrating his batting prowess and ability to handle pressure. He scored 450 runs in 14 matches at an average of 37.50 and a remarkable strike rate of 155.00.
Pant’s aggressive style and consistency were evident as he notched up four half-centuries, with a top score of 92. His ability to accelerate the innings and play impactful knocks, especially while batting in the middle order, provided stability and momentum to his team.
These impressive stats from the IPL 2024 season set high expectations for Pant to deliver similar performances for India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, reinforcing his role as a key player in high-pressure situations.
– Rating: 7/10
6. Sanju Samson [Keeper]
Sanju Samson’s IPL 2024 season highlighted his potential to contribute significantly, even though he has struggled under pressure at times. Samson scored 531 runs in 15 matches at an average of 35.40 and a strike rate of 143.00. He showcased his batting skills with six half-centuries, his highest score being 84. Samson’s ability to play aggressive and fluent innings provided crucial runs for his team.
Despite occasional lapses, his overall performance in the IPL 2024 was strong, giving him the confidence to step up at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. These stats underline his capability to be a valuable asset for the Indian team, especially if he can overcome his struggles in high-pressure situations.
– Rating: 7/10
7. Axar Patel
Axar Patel’s IPL 2024 performance solidified his reputation as a dependable all-rounder. With the bat, he scored 275 runs in 14 matches at an average of 22.91 and a strike rate of 135.00, providing crucial lower-order runs for his team.
His highest score was a quickfire 48 not out, demonstrating his ability to finish innings strongly. With the ball, Axar was equally impressive, taking 18 wickets at an economy rate of 7.66. His best bowling figures were 3/18, showcasing his knack for breaking partnerships and maintaining pressure on the opposition.
These statistics reflect Axar’s all-around capabilities and make him a key player for India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, especially on the spin-friendly pitches in the West Indies.
– Rating: 8/10
8. Kuldeep Yadav
Kuldeep Yadav’s IPL 2024 season underscored his status as a premier spinner in the league. He took 21 wickets in 14 matches, showcasing his wicket-taking ability with a strong average of 18.85. His economy rate of 7.25 highlighted his skill in controlling the flow of runs, making him a vital asset in the middle overs.
Kuldeep’s best bowling figures of 4/26 demonstrated his match-winning potential and his ability to deliver under pressure.
Kuldeep’s IPL 2024 stats reflect his consistent performance throughout the season, reinforcing his importance as a frontline spin bowler in team India for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where his role will be crucial on the turning pitches in the West Indies.
– Rating: 8/10
9. Yuzvendra Chahal
Yuzi Chahal’s IPL 2024 season was marked by his wicket-taking ability, despite some inconsistency. He claimed 17 wickets in 14 matches, with an average of 25.29. His economy rate of 8.50 indicated his tendency to concede runs, particularly in the second half of the season.
Chahal’s best bowling figures of 3/34 showed his capability to produce impactful performances, though his overall economy rate suggests he had difficulty maintaining control.
With a mixed IPL 2024 season, Chahal is highlighting his potential to be both a match-winner and a concern for India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 if he doesn’t find consistency.
– Rating: 7/10
10. Jasprit Bumrah
Jasprit Bumrah’s IPL 2024 performance reaffirmed his status as one of the premier bowlers in the world. He took 24 wickets in 14 matches, boasting an impressive average of 15.75. His economy rate of 6.48 was exceptional, especially in a season where bowlers generally struggled to contain runs. Bumrah’s best bowling figures of 4/14 showcased his ability to decimate batting line-ups and control the game’s tempo.
His consistent ability to deliver under pressure and in crucial moments was a key factor in his team’s success. These statistics highlight Bumrah’s dominance in the IPL 2024 and set high expectations for his performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where improving his record in knockout matches will be crucial for India’s campaign.
– Rating: 9/10
11. Mohammad Siraj
Mohammad Siraj’s IPL 2024 season was a tale of two halves. In the first half, he struggled to find his rhythm, but he bounced back with a strong performance in the latter part of the tournament. Siraj took 16 wickets in 14 matches, with an average of 27.50. His economy rate of 9.19 reflected his occasional difficulty in maintaining control, but he showed his wicket-taking ability with his best figures of 3/22. Despite the high economy rate, his capability to strike at crucial moments provided his team with key breakthroughs.
Even though it is an up-and-down IPL 2024 for Siraj, there is the need for greater accuracy and consistency as he heads into the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where his role will be vital for India’s success.
– Rating: 5/10
12. Arshdeep Singh
Arshdeep Singh’s IPL 2024 season was characterised by his ability to take wickets but also his struggle with maintaining an economical rate. He picked up 15 wickets in 13 matches, with an average of 30.80. However, his high economy rate of 10.03 highlighted his difficulty in controlling the run flow, especially in the death overs where he conceded heavily. His best bowling figures of 3/35 showcased his potential to make significant contributions, but the overall inconsistency was a concern.
Despite these challenges, Arshdeep’s pace and wicket-taking ability could be valuable in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, particularly in the USA where he might benefit from the pitches that offer more pace and bounce.
– Rating: 4/10
13. Yashasvi Jaiswal
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s IPL 2024 performance mirrored his potential and promise as a young talent. He scored 482 runs in 15 matches, maintaining a respectable average of 32.13 and a solid strike rate of 136.50. Despite often getting out before reaching fifty, he managed to notch up three half-centuries, with his highest score being 78. Jaiswal’s ability to provide steady starts and his composure under playoff pressure were commendable, though his conversion rate needs improvement.
Jaiswal’s growing maturity hints at his potential impact for India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, where he is likely to be a key contender for a top-order spot.
-Rating: 6/10
14. Shivam Dube
Shivam Dube’s IPL 2024 season showcased his prowess, particularly against spin, but it also highlighted areas of concern. He scored 355 runs in 14 matches at an average of 27.30 and a strike rate of 142.00. Dube started the season strong, playing several impactful innings, with his highest score being 68. However, his form dipped significantly after the squad announcement for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, and he struggled to deliver under pressure in the latter half of the tournament.
Despite his overall decent performance, his inconsistency and inability to handle high-pressure situations remain a concern. These stats underscore the potential risks and rewards of including Dube in the World Cup squad, with the hope that he can overcome his recent struggles and contribute effectively.
-Rating: 6/10
15. Ravindra Jadeja
Ravindra Jadeja’s IPL 2024 performance was mixed, highlighting his challenges and strengths. He took 12 wickets in 14 matches at an economy rate of 7.50, which is commendable for a spinner in T20s. However, his average of 30.25 indicated he wasn’t as effective at taking wickets as expected. With the bat, Jadeja scored 212 runs at an average of 19.27 and a strike rate of 120.11, which were below his usual standards. His highest score was a modest 39, reflecting his struggle for consistency and confidence at the crease.
Jadeja remained economical through the season, his overall impact was limited, raising questions about his selection over other in-form players like Axar Patel for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024.
– Rating: 5/10
No matter what the form – Indian cricket fans will back the Blues to end the ICC title drought that has lasted for over a decade now. They came awfully close in November 2023, and in June 2024, it is time to finish some unfinished business.
The Spotz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye.
