Impressed by India‘s dominant performance, former New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming praised the ‘smart’ job done by the Indian selectors in assembling a squad poised to reach the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 final. India have been remarkable in the tournament so far, winning all three of their group stage matches before their fourth contest was abandoned in Florida. The Rohit Sharma-led team will play against Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Australia in the Super 8 stage.

Fleming supported the Indian team’s decision to retain the Rohit Sharma–Virat Kohli opening partnership. However, he acknowledged that leaving out an opener like Yashasvi Jaiswal from the playing XI was a difficult choice for the team.

“Leaving out top-quality player like Jaiswal is always a difficult decision, even when you have a clear plan. However, the selectors have done a commendable job sticking to their plan and making the tough calls, despite the challenges of managing a squad with talent,” Fleming said on ESPNcricinfo.

Fleming believes that with a formidable spin attack and spin-dominating batters, Team India is ready to play against the rivals.

“In my view. This team is well-suited for the finals. They have skilled spinners who can dominate. The Indian batters can also score runs against the spinners of other teams. We’ve seen spin playing a significant role in the West Indies. So I believe this team is well-equipped to succeed, with a shrewd game plan as they aim to reach the semi-finals and finals,” he continued.

“Rahul and the team have selected a squad that they believe is well-suited for the playing conditions. They have assembled a balanced side that they feel gives them the best chance to success, even though the team selection process has involved some trial and error based on varying conditions. Overall, the captain is confident that the team is positive heading into the big game,” he further added.

According to several cricketers, Kuldeep Yadav will make the playing XI for the West Indies leg. It will be intriguing whether he will replace the underperforming Ravindra Jadeja in the starting lineup.