In the dynamic world of international cricket, certain players find themselves on the periphery of T20 Internationals (T20Is), not getting an opportunity to showcase their skills on the global stage. As we reflect on the year 2023, it becomes evident that there are several Indian players who have not even featured in a single T20I during this period. This absence may be attributed to various factors, including competition for spots, team strategies, and individual form.
Rohit Sharma: Rohit Sharma, a cornerstone of Indian cricket, has been notably absent from T20 International (T20I) action since the 2022 World Cup semi-final. Despite holding the role of the official all-format captain, there is a conspicuous silence regarding his T20I future. Indian cricket enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the selectors’ announcement for the South Africa series, hoping for clarity on Rohit’s role in T20Is. While speculations abound, Rohit continues to be an active T20I player, keeping the door open for potential leadership responsibilities in the upcoming 2024 T20 World Cup.
Virat Kohli: Much like his counterpart Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli has been absent from T20I fixtures in 2023 since the 2022 T20 World Cup. Widely recognized as one of the fittest players globally, Kohli possesses the capability to excel in all three cricketing formats. With the T20 World Cup scheduled for the following year, Kohli might opt to focus on T20 cricket, potentially skipping ODIs. The awaited South Africa series is expected to provide insights into Kohli’s T20I plans.
KL Rahul: KL Rahul, Rohit Sharma’s deputy in the 2022 T20 World Cup, has not featured in a T20I since the semi-final clash against England. Criticized for his poor strike rate in T20Is over the past two years, Rahul’s T20I future remains uncertain. The forthcoming South Africa series is anticipated to shed light on whether he will be part of the T20I setup moving forward.
Mohammed Shami: Despite emerging as the highest wicket-taker in the recently concluded ODI World Cup in 2023, Mohammed Shami’s T20I records raise concerns. Deemed expensive and excluded from the preparations for the 2022 T20 World Cup, Shami was belatedly included just ahead of the tournament’s semi-final. Since then, he has not featured in T20Is, prompting questions about his role in the shortest format.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar: Bhuvneshwar Kumar, a participant in the 2022 World Cup, has faced a dip in T20I performances. Notably absent from the team across all formats since the 2022 World Cup semi-final, questions linger about his future role. Kumar’s recent exclusion raises uncertainties about his place in T20Is, with the upcoming South Africa series potentially providing clarity on his standing in the format.
