Is Vijay Shankar or Rishabh Pant Better for the India Cricket Team in the 2019 World Cup?

The selection of Vijay Shankar and Dinesh Karthik over Rishabh Pant and Ambati Rayudu for the India Cricket Team in the 2019 World Cup is a topic of much debate. Critics argue that the team might falter in the later stages due to a lack of power in the batting middle order. In this article, we will explore the reasoning behind these selections and the potential impact on the team's performance.

Selected Players and Their Justification

Let's start by justifying the selections:

Choosing Dinesh Karthik Over KL Rahul

Dinesh Karthik was a more experienced wicket-keeper and played a crucial role as a backup keeper. His decent performance over the past two years solidifies his position in the team. In contrast, KL Rahul was largely out of form.

Ambati Rayudu Instead of KL Rahul

Ambati Rayudu could have been selected over Rahul, but given Rahul's better form, he was given the preference. However, this choice is still disputed, especially considering Rayudu's batting skills and experience.

Teams Selection Rationale:

Vijay Shankar: He possesses three dimensions in the cricket field - batting, bowling, and fielding. His batting has shown potential with a swing in the middle order, providing a multi-dimensional option for the team. Despite his recent debut in the World Cup, his inclusion warrants further consideration due to his all-round capabilities.

Rishabh Pant: While Pant has not yet reached the maturity level required for such a high-pressure role, his selection was a right call given his youth and potential.

Umesh Yadav: His form had largely been off, and he lacks the killing instincts needed for effective bowling. His exclusion was a justified decision.

Debating the Selections

Rayudu's Selection: The selection of Vijay Shankar over Ambati Rayudu is linked to personal politics within the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI), which is not seen as justified. Rayudu's average of 48 is criticized by the International Cricket Council (ICC). However, cricket players are often chosen based on their potential rather than past performances. Rayudu's role as a reliable backup wicket-keeper for Dinesh Karthik is essential.

Pant's Selection: While Pant has shown his potential, he is still not considered mature enough to handle the high-pressure environment of the World Cup. His inclusion was seen as a prudent decision, balancing experience and youth.

Impact of Selection on Future Performances

Given the past year's performances, the inclusion of Vijay Shankar in the team seems justified. His consistent batting and multi-faceted skills make him a suitable candidate for the World Cup. However, the no. 4 batting position might be too ambitious for him, considering he has only played for India in the previous year.

Revisiting Ajinkya Rahane for a spot in the World Cup might have been a better choice. Rahane, with his experience and ability to build innings, would have complemented Virat Kohli more effectively. Yet, the team decided to give Rahane opportunities in New Zealand and Australia instead of providing consistent opportunities to Ambati Rayudu.

Conclusion and Outlook

The selection of players for the 2019 World Cup was a reflection of the team's tact and strategy. While Vijay Shankar brings versatility and potential, the team’s overall performance might hinge on the players' ability to adapt to various conditions. It is hoped that all team members will perform to their best potential, replicating the heroics of 1983.

Final Thought:

As the World Cup approaches, the team must focus on their strengths and address the weaknesses. The inclusion of experienced players like Jinx and Ajinkya Rahane could provide the team with a more solid foundation. Jai Hind to the Indian team!