The upcoming T20 World Cup has stirred up a debate over the selection of the wicketkeeper for India’s first few matches. The discussion revolves around two talented players, Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson, both of whom have been included in the 15-man squad. However, former Australian cricketer and renowned cricket coach, Tom Moody, has voiced his preference for Rishabh Pant over Sanju Samson for India’s initial matches.
Tom Moody picks Rishabh Pant over Sanju Samson
Rishabh Pant, who has scored 398 runs in 11 matches, has made a remarkable return to the field with his performances in the IPL. His aggressive batting style and ability to change the course of the game single-handedly make him a valuable asset to the team. Moreover, Pant’s left-handed batting provides a point of difference in the middle order, which could be crucial in countering the opposition’s bowling strategies.
“Absolutely, he does. I think his added advantage is that he is a left-hander, which I think is going to be really important to have that sort of point of difference in the middle order, particularly in the middle overs, which is probably the time that he’ll come into the game.”
“You don’t want to sort of find yourself in a position where you’re stuck with two right-handers and your opposition line up bowlers accordingly. So I think he gives you that flexibility, and he’s a specialist middle-order player. Sanju Samson is a specialist number three. So you’re asking a specialist number three. It’s not saying he can’t do it, but to move into number five when you’ve already got one on your books. Why wouldn’t you? Why wouldn’t you give that opportunity to the person that is used to sitting in that seat?” said Moody.
Sanju Samson, despite his brilliant form for Rajasthan Royals this season, is primarily a specialist number three. While Samson’s batting prowess is undeniable, the team composition and batting order play a significant role in deciding the playing eleven. According to Moody, it would be more beneficial to have a natural middle-order player like Pant, who is accustomed to the pressures and demands of that position.
