Former Indian cricketer Manoj Tiwary has sparked a debate regarding Hardik Pandya‘s place in the T20 World Cup squad amidst his no-bowling stance for Mumbai Indians. Tiwary’s comments come as Shivam Dube shines for Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2024 season, leading to speculation that he might replace Pandya in the national team. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to announce the 15-member squad by the end of April.
Tiwary highlighted Dube’s impressive form, saying, “If he wants to play in the Indian T20 World Cup team as an all-rounder, he has to bowl.”
The discussion arose on Cricbuzz when Tiwary was asked about Pandya’s limited bowling in recent matches for Mumbai Indians. Tiwary emphasized the importance of Pandya bowling to secure his spot in the World Cup squad, stating, “If he is not bowling, so only by his batting ability, not by his reputation, but by his form, will you pick Shivam Dube or Hardik?”
Tiwary expressed his belief that Dube should be considered ahead of Pandya for the ICC event, stating, “With this form, Hardik won’t be picked in the T20 World Cup.” He also suggested that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) would be responsible if Dube fails to make the squad, as CSK has not utilized Dube’s bowling skills. Tiwary urged CSK to allow Dube to bowl, stating, “I have been saying this for a long time, if you want a replacement for Hardik, get Dube ready.”
Tiwary questioned India’s approach to preparing for ICC events, pointing out the lack of focus on grooming backup options for Pandya. He emphasized the need to plan ahead and utilize players like Dube, who he described as a “clever bowler.” He also highlighted the need for Pandya to contribute with the ball, considering his high economy rate this season.
Tiwary talks about Dube’s bowling
“At one time we also had Venkatesh Iyer. Suddenly, both of them stopped bowling. We should be looking at the bigger goal. We are talking about the World Cup here and India haven’t been able to lift that trophy for a long time. So we have to plan for that ahead of time. Now Hardik is not in form and if you pick Dube in the squad, how much he can perform as a bowler is not known. But as far as I know, Dube is a clever bowler. Remember that T20I series at home against Afghanistan,” he said.
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