Sanju Samson and Yuzvendra Chahal Join India’s T20 World Cup Squad, With Hardik Pandya Named Vice-Captain
India’s provisional squad for the T20 World Cup has been announced, with Sanju Samson and Yuzvendra Chahal joining the ranks following their impressive performances in the IPL. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) made the announcement after a meeting between secretary Jay Shah and chief selector Ajit Agarkar in Ahmedabad.
Shubman Gill and Rinku Singh have been placed in the reserves group as the selectors opted for experienced players for the high-profile event in June. The T20 World Cup is set to begin on June 1 in the USA and the Caribbean, with India facing Ireland on June 5 in New York.
Hardik Pandya has been named the vice-captain despite recent form concerns as he continues to lead the Mumbai Indians in the ongoing IPL season. Explosive batter Shivam Dube has also secured a spot in the squad following his strong performances for the Chennai Super Kings.
Sanju Samson, who has been in fine form both with the bat and as captain for Rajasthan Royals in IPL, has been selected as India’s second wicketkeeper-batter behind Rishabh Pant. Leg-spinner Chahal, who last played for India in August 2023, has been included as India’s second wrist spinner alongside Kuldeep Yadav. Despite a successful IPL season as captain of Gujarat Titans, Gill has been named among standbys along with Rinku Singh from Kolkata Knight Riders.
