“It would be insane if India didn’t select Rohit and Kohli for the T20 World Cup,” says Andre Russell

Andre Russell claims it would be “madness” to select an Indian team without Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the T20 World Cup the following year. Towards the end of his response, he reiterated the same to confirm his argument, in case it wasn’t already apparent. Like most people from the Caribbean, Russell isn’t afraid to speak his mind. He will speak about anything that is on his mind. And that’s exactly what transpired when he was questioned regarding Rohit and Kohli’s T20I prospects.

After the ODI World Cup, the roles of Rohit and Kohli in the Indian T20I team remain unclear. They haven’t played in this format for over a year, but given their performance in the recently finished World Cup, they could be asked to return for one last attempt at a World Cup—albeit in the T20 format. Russell stated that although the young Indian players would put up a strong fight against Rohit and Kohli, there aren’t many better choices than them in high-pressure scenarios.

“I’m not sure why this dispute between Virat and Rohit is so important. Cricket players may also face obstacles from social media, as it casts doubt on their abilities. Given Rohit’s background and Virat’s nature, it would be absurd if India selected a side for the T20 World Cup without him. Having World Cup experience is crucial. Eleven young soldiers cannot be sent to fight. Experience is a must. They will be challenged by the youthful Indian athletes.

Also read: Here’s India’s Probable Squad For South Africa T20Is

It will be the T20 World Cup in six months. Prior to that, India had played just eight Twenty20 internationals (including the two games in the home series against Australia). Hardik Pandya, who leads India in T20Is this year, is probably going to miss all of those matches due to an ankle injury he sustained during last month’s ODI World Cup. Will the selectors want to have a youthful team under him in the World Cup the following year in such a scenario?