Suresh Raina explores India's T20 World Cup wicketkeeping options

The T20 World Cup is looming on the horizon and the various participating teams have already kicked off their preparations for the marquee tournament. With the tournament rapidly approaching, many eyes will be on the Rohit Sharma-led team India.

Coming after losing the summit clash of the ODI World Cup, the Men in Blue will seek redemption and aim to do better in the shortest format. Many have come forward to discuss India’s squad for the upcoming competition, and former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina also gave his take on the same.

Acknowledging that 30-year-old Jitesh Sharma could be in contention to make India’s squad for the World Cup, Raina opined that Rohit Sharma will look to go for star batter Rishabh Pant as his first-choice wicketkeeper if he stays fit.

"I feel Sanju Samson can be a weapon, as he can bat anywhere. Jitesh is also there, but I feel Rohit Sharma's first choice will be Rishabh Pant, depending on what he does in the two months (of the IPL), because he keeps well and will be making a comeback,” Raina said in a discussion on Colors Cineplex.

Ishan Kishan is another option: Raina

Raina also opined that Sanju Samson should be ahead of the race to make it into the squad ahead of Jitesh Sharma. Samson brings some much-needed experience with him and exceptional leadership qualities from his tenure with the IPL’s Rajasthan Royals.

"Ishan Kishan is another option. Jitesh Sharma is keeping exceptionally well and has done well in batting whenever he has got a chance. However, Sanju Samson brings impact. He plays big knocks. He thinks like a captain and captains the Rajasthan Royals as well. I have great confidence in him,” Raina said.

Currently, the Indian team is preparing for the T20 World Cup by taking on Afghanistan in a three-game T20I series. Having won the first T20I, the Men in Blue will look to clinch the series when they take on Afghanistan in the second T20I on Sunday, January 14.