Irfan Pathan: IPL Form Should Not Automatic Ticket to National Team Selection
"Just because some players are performing well in the IPL, it doesn't mean they should automatically be selected. In the IPL" - Irfan Pathan

Asela MadhusankaEditor
Posted - 2024-04-30T08:10:53+06:00
Updated - 2024-04-30T08:10:53+06:00
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has emphasized that standout performances in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season should not guarantee automatic selection for India's squad in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024. Scheduled to commence on June 1 in the West Indies and USA.
According to the T20I world cup winner 2007 Pathan's statement he advised Board of Control for Cricket (BCCI) selectors to keep balanced approach to player selection, considering factors beyond IPL performances. While the IPL provides a valuable platform for players to showcase their skills, Pathan highlights that international cricket demands a higher level of consistency and adaptability.
"Just because some players are performing well in the IPL, it doesn't mean they should automatically be selected. In the IPL, there are always one or two uncapped bowlers who can be easily smacked due to small grounds and flat pitches. However, international cricket is a different beast altogether. You'll have five bowlers, each with a significant number of matches under their belt before entering the World Cup, bringing in tons of experience.
You'll be up against top-quality bowlers like Mitchell Starc. While Starc's performance in the IPL may differ, you'll still be facing top-quality bowlers. For instance, from Sri Lanka, you might face someone like Pathirana.
"But you'll also have the other four bowlers, who are top-quality performers. So, don't overlook their contributions. While considering recent performances is important, remember their achievements for the Indian team before the IPL as well," he added via Star Sports.
Groups for T20 World Cup 2024
Group A: India, Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, United States
Group B: England, Australia, Namibia, Scotland, Oman
Group C: New Zealand, West Indies, Afghanistan, Uganda, Papua New Guinea
Group D: South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Nepal