xtratime Logo

Xtra Time Web Desk: The battle between Rishabh Pant and Samson isn't a matter of contention, according to legendary Brian Lara. Both wicketkeeper-batters can potentially feature in India's T20 World Cup 2024 squad. With the senior national selectors closely monitoring IPL 2024 performances, the squad is anticipated to be finalized by the end of April. Amidst stiff competition for every position, the race for the wicketkeeper's slot intensifies.

Speaking to the Star Sports Press Room show, Brian Lara commended Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson for their current IPL 2024 form. For Lara, they are definitely frontrunners for spots in the T20 World Cup squad.

Read More: Will Virat Kohli make up to the T20 World Cup squad amidst all the criticism?

"I think both players should go. They both have put the best show so far in terms of batting. Sanju Samson is an awesome player, a great timer of the ball. Rishabh Pant has been so good for India over the years. Obviously, coming back from the incident, I think he has shown great form. For me, those 2 are definitely the frontrunners for the position," said Lara.

Pant and Samson’s IPL performance so far:

Pant has spearheaded Delhi's batting lineup with remarkable performances. Despite Delhi's struggles, holding just one win in five matches, Pant's stellar displays indicate his readiness for competitive cricket following a remarkable recovery from multiple injuries. Notably, Pant's impactful 51-run knock from 32 deliveries against CSK at Vizag guided the team to a 20-run victory. He continued his form with another half-century, scoring 55 runs from 25 balls against the Knight Riders in Vizag, albeit in a losing effort as DC fell short by 106 runs.

Read More: Is Rishabh Pant inching closer towards T20 World Cup call-up?

Meanwhile, Samson ranks fifth in the Orange Cap race of IPL 2024, having amassed 178 runs in four matches for RR. His exceptional form with the bat has significantly contributed to Rajasthan's success in the tournament, positioning them at the top of the points table. As the T20 World Cup approaches, Samson aims to maintain his prolific run-scoring for RR, enhancing his chances for selection in India's squad. The tournament commences on June 1, with India facing Ireland in their opening match on June 5.