IPL 2024: Fans Question Rishabh Pant's T20 Credentials After Another 'Flop Show' Post World Cup Squad Selection

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Rishabh Pant's recent performances in the IPL 2024 have stirred concerns among cricket fans and analysts, especially following his inclusion in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup.

Despite being a dynamic and explosive batsman, Pant's inability to convert starts into substantial innings has become a focal point of criticism. Also read: Most Runs in IPL 2024 | Most Wickets | Most Sixes | IPL Points Table

In the latest IPL match against Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi-a venue known for its batting-friendly conditions-Pant could only muster 15 runs off 13 balls.

This lacklustre performance followed scores of 27 and 29 in his previous outings, which, while decent, failed to meet the high expectations set for a player of his calibre, especially in critical phases of the tournament.

The mounting skepticism about Pant's form is evident on social media, where fans openly questioned his selection for the T20 World Cup. One Twitter user pointed out the stark contrast between Pant's domestic form and his international track record, stating, "Selected for the Indian team, back to the basics. Rishabh Pant- 15(13) on batting pitch," highlighting his inefficiency on what was otherwise a high-scoring surface.

Another fan expressed frustration over perceived biases in team selection, attributing Pant's inclusion to external factors rather than merit. "Rishabh Pant is the biggest T20I Fraud and yet he selected for T20I WC because he met a car accident because of his own mistakes!! Sympathy and PR based selection will cost India yet another T20I WC. India don't deserve to win anything with this PR/Non-Merit selections!!" the tweet read.

Concerns about Pant's form were echoed by another user, who hoped for a turnaround before the World Cup: "Once again Rishabh Pant failed. Back to back failure in IPL 2024. Hope he will leave his bad form in IPL before flying to US for T20 World Cup."

The debate extended to discussions about alternatives for India's wicketkeeping role, with many advocating for Sanju Samson over Pant. "Such approach of Rishabh Pant will not help India at T20 World Cup. 15 (13). Sanju Samson has to be the first choice WK," commented a fan.

Criticism also targeted Pant's batting technique and temperament, which some fans believe are not up to the mark for the highest levels of T20 cricket. "I can be criticised for this but I don't like Rishabh Pant batting style. He falls after hitting every shot. he does not have a firm pose to hit the shot. I am skeptical about his selection in world cup team. Sanju Samson should be given chance instead of Rishabh Pant, he plays better than Rishabh," a tweet explained.

As the T20 World Cup approaches, the pressure on Pant to perform and justify his place in the squad is intensifying, especially amid growing calls for a review of his role and contributions to the team.