T20 World Cup 2021: India's predicted playing XI for Pakistan clash

The T20 World Cup is just a few days away and the excitement for the mega event has already reached the crescendo. BCCI announced the 15-member squad for the upcoming high-profile event. A few key names were missed out from the squad, whereas there were a few interesting inclusions as well. Looking at the team, it is understood that the selectors have gone by the saying ‘horses for courses.’

The face-off between India and Pakistan is always a fascinating one to watch out for the cricketing fraternity. The two nations do not play any bilateral matches owing to the political tensions between them. The teams lock horns with each other only for the Asia Cup and the ICC events. Thus, the audacity of the occasion increases furthermore.

Currently, the Indian players included in the World Cup squad are playing in the IPL. This is expected to go down as good preparation for the players ahead of the start of the marquee tournament. However, the playing conditions will vastly affect the team balance. It is no brainer that all the teams will aim that their best XI takes the charge of the field.

Here is India’s predicted playing XI for the opening game:

1. Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma is probably one of the most prolific openers in the current era across all formats. He would definitely be India’s first-choice opener for the clash against the arch-rivals. The right-handed batter is one of the very few cricketers who have a century to their name in all three formats. He has four hundreds in the shortest format and would definitely be one of the key players for the side.

With the effortless straight drives, beautiful late cuts, and his signature pull shot, the batter makes cricket look a tad bit easier. However, with the plethora of experience he has under his sleeves, Sharma will know how to tackle the bowlers and thus would be instrumental in providing a steady start to the team. Talking about international cricket, he has looked in fine form.

In the recently concluded Test match series, he registered his maiden overseas Test century and that would have boosted his confidence. Though these are two completely different formats, the batter would be keen on taking the momentum further for team India.