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The race for India's wicketkeeper-batter spot in the upcoming T20 World Cup has heated up, with several players vying for selection. Among the contenders are Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, Dinesh Karthik, Jitesh Sharma, and Dhruv Jurel. However, former Australian cricketer Ricky Ponting has thrown his support behind Rishabh Pant.
Ponting, speaking ahead of the Delhi Capitals' match against the Gujarat Titans, expressed his confidence in Pant's abilities. He noted Pant's recent performances in the IPL 2024, where he scored two fifties, as evidence of his form and suitability for the T20 World Cup squad.
Ponting emphasized Pant's consistency and impact over the past seasons of the IPL and his contributions to the Indian team. Despite strong showings from other contenders like Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan, Ponting reiterated his preference for Pant, stating that he would include Pant in the team "every day of the week."
In terms of current IPL performances, Sanju Samson leads the run-scoring charts with 276 runs in seven matches, followed closely by Dinesh Karthik, who delivered a blistering innings of 83 runs from 37 balls. Pant ranks third in this race with 194 runs in six matches, while Ishan Kishan follows with 184 runs in as many games for the Mumbai Indians.
Ponting's endorsement of Pant highlights the tough choices facing the selectors as they finalize India's T20 World Cup squad. With multiple talented options available, the decision on the wicketkeeper-batter position is crucial, and Ponting's backing adds weight to Pant's credentials for the prestigious tournament.
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