Wait for the knives to be out!

Each time a squad is announced, meticulous scrutiny ensues. Of the two things that are reviewed over and over again, one is the exhaustive evaluation of the selected players' worthiness, and the other, an equally fervent examination of selectors' competence.

Old to young, the cacophony of opinions never quite ceases to reverberate across the spectrum.

Once again, the moment arrives for the BCCI selectors to engage in profound deliberation and assemble a contingent deemed capable of putting an end to India's ten-year ICC trophy drought. Indeed, Tuesday heralds the revelation of India's T20 World Cup squad, evoking considerable anticipation among aficionados, former cricketers, and pundits alike.

The fervent speculation revolves around the identities of those deemed deserving of inclusion and those destined to be left behind as the squad is finalised.

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In fact, the task has been considerably simplified owing to the reality that the majority of players have effectively chosen themselves by virtue of their exemplary performances in the ongoing IPL season.

The national selection committee led by former right-arm pacer Ajit Agarkar is expected to meet secretary Jay Shah in Ahmedabad to finalise the 15-member squad, but the formal announcement may be postponed by a day.

"A few slots remain subject to deliberation as the majority of the team selection is straightforward," a BCCI source in the know of developments told Mid-Day on Monday. "Do not expect too many big surprises. And we can't only rely on IPL performances, so those selected have been rated overall."

It is learnt that the focal concern lies in the fitness of Hardik Pandya's bowling abilities, which is still far from satisfying both the selection committee and team management. His inclusion could give selectors another thing to ponder as they are to deliberate who, between Shivam Dube and Rinku Singh, will join the squad. "All I can say right now is we have been closely monitoring them. It is not whether Hardik will make it to the squad, the point here is that we should move forward with the best available player. Experience matters, but a lot of emphasis is being given to our talented youngsters," he added.

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Notably, the composition of India's top four positions had largely been settled, several months prior to the IPL, with captain Rohit Sharma and Yashasvi Jaiswal slated to open, followed by Virat Kohli at number three, and the top-ranked T20I batsman, Suryakumar Yadav, positioned at number four.

KL Rahul, a standout favourite under the current coaching regime led by Rahul Dravid, could surge ahead of his closest rival, Sanju Samson, although both are exhibiting a remarkable streak of form this IPL. The prospect of unconventional choices is slim as the source hinted, however, there are no second thoughts about Mumbai Indians' Tilak Varma emerging as a potential candidate, boasting left-handed batting skills as well as offering handy off-spin, particularly against left-handed opposition batsmen. The likelihood of his selection remains uncertain given the competition for the third spinner's role between Axar Patel and Ravi Bishnoi.

The seasoned all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is poised to take precedence over Axar as the spinning all-rounder, with Axar potentially included in the squad as a backup option. Kuldeep Yadav could be the sole finger spinner in this World Cup. As things stand currently, Yuzvendra Chahal, renowned as India's most adept white-ball wrist spinner, may find himself outside the preferences of a key figure within the coaching hierarchy, significantly influencing selection decisions.

Furthermore, the injury to Mohammed Shami has depleted India's fast bowling resources, elevating Jasprit Bumrah to the forefront of the bowling setup. Despite his lackluster performances in the death overs, Arshdeep Singh's impeccable left-arm pace could do a favour or two to the side, although his spot is not guaranteed. Avesh Khan could be given a nod for his ability to generate bounce, while Mohammed Siraj, despite his subdued form in the IPL, remains in contention due to his potential match-winning abilities.