The 2022 edition of ICC Men’s T20 World Cup is all set to get underway with the qualifying round on October 16 in Australia, whereas Team India will begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan at the iconic MCG on October 23.
Even though India’s opening fixture is still more than a week away, skipper Rohit Sharma on Saturday (October 15) said that the playing XI for the marquee clash has been decided and he doesn't believe in last-minute decisions.
Both India and Pakistan feature in Group 2 in the Super 12 stage alongside South Africa, and Bangladesh while two teams will join them from the qualifiers.
"I don't believe in last-minute decisions. We want to keep our boys informed about team selection before so that they can prepare early. I already have my XI for the Pakistan match. Already those players are informed. I don't believe in a last-minute thing. I want them to prepare well. We understand the importance of India vs Pakistan match but there is no point in talking every time, even when we met during Asia Cup, we keep talking about the families, which cars do you have," Rohit said in a press conference.
"Teams have become fearless and we're looking to adopt the same approach. 140 used to be a winning total back then but now teams aim to reach there in 14-15 overs," he added.
BCCI on Friday (October 14) announced Mohammad Shami as injured Jasprit Bumrah’s replacement in the 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup 2022.
Shami was initially named in the standby list but has now been drafted to the main squad ahead of the tournament.
"Mohammad Shami I haven't seen but whatever I have heard it is good. We have a practice session in Brisbane on Sunday and I am looking forward to seeing Shami," said the India captain.
Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the upcoming T20 World Cup with a back injury, causing a massive setback to the Indian team which has been struggling with death overs bowling lately.
"You can't show disappointment in injuries, you need to look forward to what we can do. We have backed our other boys and we are backing them. Hope they deliver. We wanted to come here early and acclimatise to the situation. By the time we play Pakistan, we will be prepared. We don't believe in last-minute information, I don't want to believe in telling someone at the last minute that you are playing," Rohit added.
Having made his international debut last year, Suryakumar Yadav has established himself as one of India’s leading batters in the shortest format.
In 34 T20Is, Yadav has amassed 1045 runs at an average of 38.70 and a strike rate of 176.81, including one hundred and nine half-centuries.
Commenting on Suryakumar Yadav, Rohit said: "Surya can be our X-Factor. Hope he can continue his great form. He is a very confident player and he has confidence and momentum by his side currently."
(With ANI inputs)
