Ajinkya Rahane or Manish Pandey: Who should replace doubtful Yuvraj Singh for 2nd semi-final vs West Indies?

With the way Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina have performed in the series so far, selectors can play both Rahane and Pandey in semis by dropping one of the two left-handers.

New Delhi: Not that Yuvraj Singh is in the best of form, but now that his participation for the crucial second semi-final against West Indies in ongoing ICC World Twenty20 is doubtful, the question ahead of Indian think tank would be to choose a replacement between Ajinkya Rahane and Manish Pandey.

While the latter has been called as a cover up for the injured southpaw, Rahane has proved his mettle in all formats of the game and deserves to be in the squad. He might consume a few deliveries before going for his strokes, but with his technique and past record, the Mumbaikar will provide a lot of stability to the struggling Indian middle-order.

On the other hand, Pandey was a hot favourite to be included in India's 15-man squad for the coveted tournament, after he slammed a fantastic ton against Australia to prevent a series whitewash for the Men in Blue. But that was not the case as Sandeep Patil & Co gave priority to experienced campaigners.

Both these players are in contention to replace Yuvraj, in case the dynamic left-hander fails to clear fitness test for the semi-final.

With the way Shikhar Dhawan and Suresh Raina have performed in the series so far, selectors can play both Rahane and Pandey by dropping one of the two left-handers. It remains to be seen whether they will take such a bold decision.

After a brililant win against Australia at Mohali, hosts will now take on West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on March 31.