India’s performance in T20 internationals in 2022 has been the subject of much discussion and analysis. The team played 40 matches, the most by any team in a single year, and used 31 players, the most along with England. While they won eight out of nine bilateral series, they did not reach the finals of the Asia Cup or the T20 World Cup. This led to a review of the team’s approach and a meeting with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). There has been criticism of India’s approach to T20 cricket, particularly their batting, and their failure at major tournaments.
The upcoming series against Sri Lanka offers an opportunity for a fresh start. With the focus on the ODI World Cup in October and November, India has selected a relatively young squad for the T20Is. Rohit Sharma, who is expected to continue as 50-over captain, is currently injured and Virat Kohli and KL Rahul have been rested. Rishabh Pant was not included due to injury and veterans like Bhuvneshwar Kumar were not selected. This gives fringe players a chance to make a case for inclusion in the first-choice squad.
In Rohit’s absence, Hardik Pandya has been appointed as T20I captain. It is not yet clear if this is a temporary or permanent arrangement as India looks towards the 2024 T20 World Cup. Hardik has impressed as captain, particularly with the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has also led India in T20Is in Ireland, West Indies, and New Zealand. The upcoming series and selection for the series against New Zealand may provide insight into the possibility of a captaincy transition. Suryakumar Yadav, India’s top T20 batter in 2022, has been promoted to vice-captain.
Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, and the top order may also have the opportunity to play consecutive games against Sri Lanka and New Zealand. This could help establish their place in the team. Ishan Kishan made a strong debut in T20Is, but struggled in the IPL and with the national team. A record-breaking double century in ODIs has improved his standing. Sanju Samson has had limited opportunities since his debut in 2015, but has been a top scorer in the IPL. Both players have the ability to bat anywhere in the order and could provide flexibility.
Suryakumar Yadav, Nitish Rana, and Shreyas Iyer have also made strong cases for inclusion in the team. Suryakumar Yadav has impressed in domestic and IPL cricket and Nitish Rana has made a strong case as a middle-order batsman. Shreyas Iyer has been a consistent performer in the IPL and for India in ODIs. The performance of these players in the upcoming series could influence India’s approach to T20 cricket and the make-up of the team heading into the 2024 T20 World Cup.
