‘He’s got to work out like every other player in this tournament’ – Adam Gilchrist shuts talk around KL Rahul’s inclusion India’s T20 WC squad

KL Rahul. (Photo Source: SAJJAD HUSSAIN/AFP via Getty Images)

As the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup draws nearer, the debate surrounding India’s squad selection has intensified. Notably, following each match in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2024) season, talk shows have fervently discussed the potential inclusion of Indian players in the World Cup squad, evaluating their performance so far in the current event. The one position that has been a focal point of these discussions is the wicketkeeper’s role. 

Rishabh Pant has made a comeback to cricket during IPL 2024 after a long hiatus, and Sanju Samson has emerged as the top contender to don the gloves, it has casted doubt on KL Rahul’s prospects for selection. Meanwhile, Adam Gilchrist recently quashed speculation regarding Rahul’s inclusion in the World Cup squad. The former Australian cricketer advised Rahul to shift his focus away from ongoing debates and concentrate on winning the IPL title with Lucknow Super Giants. He further emphasized that being the standout player in the cash-rich league would inherently secure him a spot in the ICC marquee event.

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“It’s probably going to be hard to shut it down for the rest of the tournament (talk around T20 World Cup selection). The narrative has to get away from who’s going on the World Cup. How do they get into the World Cup? He’s got to work out like every other player in this tournament. You’ll be on the plane if you’re in the narrative of selecting,” the 52-year-old told Cricbuzz.

Before the commencement of IPL 2024, there were speculations that Rahul might transform himself into a middle-order batter to bolster his chances for the World Cup squad. However, he continued to open for Lucknow this season. Similarly, Samson is also batting in the top order for Rajasthan Royals, further diminishing Rahul’s prospects.

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Additionally, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is expected to reveal the 15-man World Cup squad for India by the end of April. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has set May 1 as the deadline for squad submissions for the showpiece event which will be co-hosted by the US and West Indies.