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Former Indian cricketer and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has sounded a warning to the Indian cricket team just hours before the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 Final against South Africa at the Kensington Oval in Barbados on Saturday, June 29.
India’s quest for an ICC trophy has been elusive since their ICC Champions Trophy victory in 2013 under the leadership of MS Dhoni. With an opportunity to break this drought after narrowly missing out in the ODI World Cup 2023, India faces a crucial moment.
Manjrekar particularly focused on the form of Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja, pointing out concerns ahead of the final. He highlighted the potential challenge for Rohit Sharma in managing bowling resources effectively on a Barbados pitch that could favor batsmen, especially considering Jadeja’s recent form.
Ahead of the showdown against South Africa, Manjrekar stressed the importance of all-rounders like Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, suggesting adjustments may be needed in their roles to address tactical demands. He cautioned against overreliance on Jadeja’s bowling effectiveness on flat pitches, advocating for a balanced strategy involving Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav as reliable bowling options.
Reflecting on India’s recent match against Australia in the Super-8s, where bowlers faced difficulties, Manjrekar emphasized the need for strategic decisions to optimize bowling resources effectively. As South Africa enters their maiden ICC final, Manjrekar’s analysis underscores the critical tactical decisions facing India in this high-stakes encounter.
Sanjay Manjrekar said by ESPNCricinfo: “I believe if the pitch turns out very good for batting, if it is a flat deck, it will be difficult to give Jadeja four overs. India will have to turn to Hardik Pandya. That is a bit of a weakness that we saw against Australia.”
Manjrekar signed off by saying, “Hardik doing four overs, Arshdeep Singh is, too, coming to terms with his consistency. On flat pitch, seam bowling comes under pressure a bit. Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav will do four overs, but you can’t trust Jadeja. Hardik Pandya will have to rise to the occasion, Shivam Dube might have to bowl an over or two.”
Despite Ravindra Jadeja’s limited impact in Team India’s journey to the T20 World Cup 2024 finals, where he has been somewhat subdued with only one wicket and 33 runs from seven matches, his consistent presence in the XI highlights his valued multi-dimensional role. India remains optimistic that Jadeja will deliver a stellar performance when it matters most.
