The anticipation for the upcoming T20 World Cup has intensified with discussions revolving around Virat Kohli’s potential inclusion in the Indian team. While Rohit Sharma is set to lead the squad, uncertainties loom over Kohli’s participation, sparking debates and speculations across cricket circles.

Recent media reports suggested that Kohli’s spot in the T20 World Cup squad might not be guaranteed, citing concerns over his recent T20 performances and India’s quest for an ICC trophy since 2013. However, former selector Kris Srikkanth dismissed these rumors, emphasizing Kohli’s indispensable role in the team.

Srikkanth passionately defended Kohli’s contribution, highlighting his pivotal role in India’s journey to the semi-finals of the 2022 T20 World Cup, where he was awarded the ‘Man of the Tournament’ title. Refuting notions of Kohli’s exclusion, Srikkanth emphasized the necessity of Kohli’s presence for India’s success in the tournament.

Despite selectors’ concerns about Kohli’s T20 form, Srikkanth stressed the importance of considering Kohli’s potential resurgence, particularly during the upcoming IPL season. He reiterated Kohli’s significance as a dependable anchor in the team, essential for India’s performance in both T20 and ODI formats.

Kohli’s absence during the recent Test series against England, due to personal reasons, sparked discussions about his future role in the team. Srikkanth advocated for honoring Kohli’s contributions akin to Sachin Tendulkar’s recognition in 2011, emphasizing the significance of winning the World Cup for Kohli.

As discussions continue, the debate surrounding Kohli’s role in the T20 World Cup underscores the pivotal decisions facing the Indian cricket selectors and the team management ahead of the highly anticipated tournament.