The preparations have already started for the 2024 T20 World Cup. The 2023 ODI World Cup showed that experience is a must for teams in big events. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and David Warner were among the runs in that tournament. Not many expected them to do that well. Hence, we could see some nations sticking with their experienced cricketers for next year’s World Cup. However, it could be in a different role. Here, we take a look at three veteran No.3 batters who could open the batting in the 2024 T20 World Cup.
1) Kane Williamson
Devon Conway has certainly cemented his spot at the top of the order. Finn Allen could be the ideal candidate to partner with him. However, the youngster’s form has been poor in recent months.
Rachin Ravindra is yet to prove his game in the T20 format. Also, the pitches in the West Indies could be challenging for a player who has not played much there before. Therefore, we could see someone like Kane Williamson move to open the batting.
2) Steve Smith
Steve Smith is one of the veteran No.3 batters who could open the batting in the 2024 T20 World Cup. It is almost certain that Smith will be David Warner’s opening partner in the event.
He did well in the last BBL. Smith has already opened a few T20 games recently. Hence, it is likely that he could open the batting while Mitchell Marsh might bat at No.3. Cameron Green will be Smith’s main competitor in this regard.
3) Virat Kohli
It will be interesting to see if Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will play in the T20 World Cup next year. Virat’s performance in the previous edition surely deserves him another chance.
However, at No.3, Virat could be a bit out-dated. SKY is needed for this role. In this regard, the only option for Virat could be to open the batting.