T20 World Cup 2024: Nayan Mongia surprised to see Rinku Singh, Ruturaj Gaikwad's India snub

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Indian Cricket Team's announcement for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024 has stirred debates and discussions, particularly around the exclusions of promising talents like Rinku Singh and Ruturaj Gaikwad.

Former India wicketkeeper-batsman Nayan Mongia has expressed his surprise and insights regarding these omissions by Indian selectors.

Rinku Singh's absence from the squad has raised eyebrows, considering his explosive performances in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2023.

Singh's impressive IPL stint led to his T20I debut in August, where he showcased his batting prowess with notable contributions against South Africa and Afghanistan. Mongia expressed his astonishment at Singh's exclusion, emphasising his belief in the left-handed batter's capabilities and the need for more opportunities to nurture his talent.

"I am a bit surprised Rinku is not there in the 15-member squad. He has done superbly in the limited opportunities he got for India. People should have taken better care of him. He should have had more opportunities in the IPL looking at the World Cup ahead," Mongia, who represented India in the 1996 and 1999 ODI World Cups, told Sportsboom on Thursday (May 2).

Mongia also highlighted the role of management in shaping Singh's career, suggesting that KKR could have utilized him differently, possibly by promoting him up the batting order. Singh's versatility as a finisher has been evident, albeit in limited opportunities, leaving Mongia to ponder over missed chances for Singh to shine on the international stage.

"The management of KKR should have taken care of this. He should have got more chances to play and perform," he added.

Another notable absentee from the squad is Ruturaj Gaikwad, the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain, known for his consistent performances in domestic and IPL circuits.

Despite Gaikwad's impressive track record and current form, the selectors opted for Shubman Gill as the backup opener. Mongia expressed surprise at Gaikwad's exclusion, highlighting his consistent performances across formats and his leadership at the Asian Games.

"Ruturaj not being in the team is a surprise too. I understand there is stiff competition, but he has been playing well in all formats over a period of time. It is unfortunate that a player in form is not getting picked. I am happy for Sanju Samson that he has got a chance," said Mongia, who played 140 ODIs and 44 Tests from 1994 to 2000.

Amidst speculations surrounding Hardik Pandya's form and leadership, the selectors named him vice-captain based on his past records and contributions to the team. Mongia emphasised Pandya's experience and credentials in the T20 format, underscoring his significance as a top-class all-rounder.

"He has been proving himself in the T20 format for a long time, for India and in the IPL. This is the only one IPL where he has not performed up to his standard. He is a top-class all-rounder. There is no doubt he has to pull up his socks when he plays for India as there is competition. As a vice-captain, it will be a new outlook, plus this is not franchise cricket," he said.

With the tournament set to kick off on June 2, all eyes will be on the Indian team as they embark on their quest for glory, led by seasoned veterans and promising talents alike.