Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli certain to make T20 World Cup 2024 squad even if they have poor IPL: Saba Karim

Former Indian selector Saba Karim feels Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are certain to make the T20 World Cup 2024 squad even if they have a poor run in the upcoming Indian Premier League. Rohit and Virat recently returned to the T20I setup after a long hiatus of 14 months.

Rohit could not trouble the scorers in the first two matches against Afghanistan however he scored a blistering knock of 121 runs off just 69 balls with the help of 11 fours and eight sixes in the third game. On the other hand, Virat Kohli scored a little cameo of 29 runs off 16 balls in the second game but was dismissed for a golden duck in the third match.

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli batted at their best in the ODI World Cup 2023. Rohit scored 597 runs in 11 matches of the World Cup 2023 at an average of 54.27 and a blistering strike rate of 125.95. The talisman scored three fifties and one century in the ODI showpiece.

On the other hand, Virat Kohli finished the tournament as the highest run-getter with 765 runs in 11 matches at an average of 95.62 and a strike rate of 90.32. Ergo, he was awarded Player of the tournament for his consistent performances.

The duo will bring a lot of experience to the table in the T20 World Cup for the national team. Karim feels Suryakumar Yadav’s place in the T20 World Cup squad is also secure even if he doesn’t have a great IPL.

“There are three players and even if they don’t have such a magnificent IPL. Still, they will continue to be part of the T20 setup over the others.”

“At this point of time, they have are very strong claim. More or less, they have kind of confirmed their place. But I’m sure if they don’t have a very, hopefully, they should have a good IPL. But I’m just saying in case they don’t have a good IPL, there may be some second thoughts into the minds of the selectors. But yes, the top three. As we have talked about Rohit, Virat and SKY, they have confirmed their place in the World Cup squad,” said Karim.

India posted 212 runs in the third T20I against Afghanistan.