India pacer Mohammed Shami is setting his sights on the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, advocating a performance-based selection criteria stemming from the Indian Premier League (IPL) results. With the prestigious tournament scheduled to unfold in the West Indies and the United States later this year, Shami is gearing up for a competitive IPL 2024 season ahead, especially after a hiatus due to injury.

Shami’s perspective is clear: excellence in the IPL should pave the way for a berth in the T20 World Cup squad. His rationale is straightforward – the IPL, a crucible of high-pressure matches and international talent, serves as the perfect proving ground for players. Follow your favourite cricket team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet. 

Shami himself is eager to don his cricketing gear again and demonstrate his ability, asserting that if he performs well, he should naturally be in contention for the World Cup squad.

“There’s still a lot of time. There’s an IPL before that. Whoever is playing well should be picked for the T20 World Cup. It’s important to be selecting the team basis the combination. If I’m performing well, I should be selected. Who will say no to the World Cup?” Shami told News24.

2023 was a year of standout performances for Shami. Despite a heart-wrenching loss to Australia in the ODI World Cup final, Shami’s contributions were far from overshadowed. Emerging as the highest wicket-taker of the tournament, his figures speak volumes – 24 wickets at a staggering average of 10.70 and an economical rate of 5.26, a performance that solidified his status as a cricketing force.

His IPL stint with Gujarat Titans (GT) further embellished his reputation. Not only did Shami clinch the Purple Cap for being the highest wicket-taker in the tournament, but he also played a pivotal role in GT’s journey to the finals. Though GT couldn’t clinch the title, Shami’s haul of 28 wickets at an average of 18.64 was a testament to his skill and consistency.

As the countdown to the T20 World Cup begins, the spotlight will undoubtedly be on the IPL and players like Shami. His recovery and return to form will be closely monitored, not just by the selectors, but by cricket enthusiasts worldwide. Get free cricket betting tips from Nextbet Sports.