In the next series against England, India's captain Rohit Sharma stated on Wednesday that they would surely be keeping an eye on the T20 World Cup, but they don't want to use it as practise and will instead strive to win and check off every box.
The 35-year-old will captain India in the T20I series against England, which starts on Thursday, after missing the fifth Test against England at Birmingham due to Covid-19. Sharma joined the rest of the team on Tuesday afternoon after completing three days of training in Birmingham.
"Undoubtedly, we are keeping an eye on the World Cup. It isn't preparedness, in my opinion. We value every game India plays. Simply put, we want to come here and try to check off every item on our list in order to complete the task "In a news conference on the morning of the first T20I, Rohit remarked.
Additionally, Rohit noted that England will be a very difficult team for the team's younger players, saying that these players have earned their opportunities after performing well for their state teams or in the IPL.
"Undoubtedly, many young athletes are gaining the chance to play for their state teams and IPL teams, giving them the chance to represent the nation. They should have this chance," he added.
"I'm fairly certain that these players have been in England for a while, so they will be a very difficult team for us. They travelled to Ireland and participated in a few exhibition matches here. We now anticipate this T20 series and the ODI series that will follow "Added he.
When asked if Umran Malik was on their radar for the T20 World Cup, the captain responded that they were undoubtedly keeping a watch on him and were interested in what the young pacer could bring to the table.
"Umran Malik is a key component of our goals. It's just a matter of trying to help him realise what the team expects of him as well. Yes, there will be occasions when we wish to test out a few men, and Umran is unquestionably one of them. We are keeping an eye on the World Cup and are interested in what he can do for us "Rohit stated.
"There's no denying that he's a promising future prospect. We all witnessed his quick bowling during the IPL. It just comes down to providing him the part " he added.