Despite not making it to India’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad, left-arm pacer T Natarajan can still impress selectors by performing well in IPL 2024, said SunRisers’ bowling coach James Franklin. Franklin commended Natarajan’s ability to bowl Yorkers, considering it a key strength for the team.
Before the BCCI announced the 15-man squad for the T20 World Cup on April 30, there was discussion about the potential inclusion of T Natarajan. However, the fast bowler from Tamil Nadu was not included in the final squad. India chose to go with the pace attack of three members in the name of Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, and Mohammed Siraj. Apart from it Avesh Khan and Khaleel Ahmed have got the place into the reserves.
Ahead of the game against Mumbai Indians, Franklin said,”There are just so many quality players in India. He can only control what he can. His great strength is obviously his yorker bowling. That is where he is a huge asset for us as a team.”
“If he keeps going the way he is going and can hold his form throughout the rest of this IPL, those sorts of conversations around India, they tend to take care of themselves. If he keeps performing, then getting back in that Indian side won’t be too far away from it,” Franklin added.
T Natarajan has been dealing with injury issues, which have affected his chances of consistently representing India. The left-arm pacer made his debut across all three formats during India’s tour of Australia in 2020-21.
Natarajan last represented India in a home series against England in March 2021. Former India head coach Ravi Shastri stated last year that Natarajan was included in their plans for the T20 World Cup 2021, and they felt his absence, especially in the death overs, during the tournament.
