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Xtra Time Web Desk: Last week, in a crucial development ahead of the T20 World Cup, India's captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Rahul Dravid, and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar convened in Mumbai to deliberate on India's squad composition. As reported by The Indian Express, the primary focus of the two-hour session amidst the IPL 2024 was the inclusion of Hardik Pandya in the World Cup squad.

Concerns loom over Pandya's form and fitness, particularly regarding his bowling capabilities. Despite ample time before the final squad selection for the global event slated in the USA and West Indies immediately after IPL 17, the Indian team management remains apprehensive about Pandya's contribution with the ball.

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Amidst mounting pressure, Pandya's performance in this season's IPL has been lacklustre, with only one standout innings against RCB. Questions arise over his approach during the middle overs, where he has struggled to maintain a desired strike rate.

However, the crux of Rohit, Dravid, and Agarkar's apprehension lies in Pandya's bowling prowess, a unique asset that adds balance to the team. While several players can fulfil Pandya's batting role, his ability to assure four overs as the third seamer is unparalleled.

Yet, Pandya's bowling form has been inconsistent and lacking clarity throughout this IPL season. Despite sporadic opportunities, he has failed to deliver consistently, raising doubts about his readiness for the T20 World Cup. With just three wickets in 11 overs and an economy rate of 12, Pandya's bowling woes persist.

Selectors indicate that Pandya's World Cup inclusion hinges on his IPL performance, particularly his bowling display. However, with the Impact Player rule granting teams an extra bowling option, relying on Pandya for four overs every match may be ambitious.

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In the event Pandya's selection becomes untenable, alternatives emerge, with Shivam Dube emerging as a frontrunner due to his batting prowess. However, his lack of bowling contributions raises concerns. Other contenders like Vijay Shankar and Venkatesh Iyer offer potential solutions, albeit with their own challenges.

While Pandya's place in the T20 World Cup squad seems secure logically, selectors and team management's reservations regarding his bowling and fitness underscore the urgency for a turnaround in his IPL fortunes, for both MI and himself.