India’s T20 batting line-up could see some changes for the better in the near future. With Yashasvi Jaiswal’s impressive IPL campaign in 2023, where he scored at a stunning rate of 175 and maintained an average of 72, he is the perfect candidate to replace Rohit Sharma as the Powerplay aggressor. Another player who could strengthen India’s T20 batting line-up is Shubman Gill, who boasts the highest ever Timing Rating of 164 for a T20 batter in the CricViz database. Gill’s exceptional timing and ability to play risk-free T20 cricket make him a must-have in India’s T20 squad.
India’s lack of left-right combinations in their batting line-up has been a concern, limiting their ability with the bat. As a solution, the team could consider promoting Tilak Varma, who has an average of 50 and strikes at 140 against left-arm spin and leg spin in the IPL. Varma has a proven track record playing alongside Suryakumar Yadav, both amassing 466 runs with their partnerships averaging 42 and striking at 148.
When it comes to finishers, Rinku Singh and Jitesh Sharma are in the running, thanks to their starting roles in IPL 2023. Alternatively, Sanju Samson, who has never been given a long run in the line-up, could be the answer. Samson has hit 67 sixes over the past three IPL seasons, with most of them coming during the middle overs, demonstrating his team-first approach.
Putting together a new-look T20 batting line-up of Gill, Jaiswal, Suryakumar, Tilak/Pant, Samson, and Hardik could yield better results and lead to a more flexible and well-rounded batting line-up. India’s T20 squad has rarely been blessed with finishers, but with the new additions, they could find themselves in a more favourable position.
