KL Rahul to Bat No. 3? Pujara Proposes Adjustments with Rohit Sharma Back
India is facing a selection headache ahead of the second Test in Adelaide on December 6, with Rohit Sharma returning from his break and Shubman Gill getting fit after his injury. Cheteshwar Pujara has shared his thoughts on the batting lineup after India’s historic triumphs in Australia.
Pujara could be a good candidate for retaining KL Rahul, but Gill might come in handy in the middle order to provide stability.
KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal opened in place of Rohit Sharma at Perth, forming a 201-run partnership, though he feels Rahul must now bat at No.3 if Rohit returns because, “For some reason, if we keep the same order, KL and Yashasvi can open, Rohit could come in at three, and Shubman at five”. Pujara says.
Pujara said Rahul’s game is more suited to the top order and warned against tinkering with his position. He added, “If Rohit wants to open, KL should not go beyond No. 3. It’s where he thrives best.”
Shubman Gill’s return has also lent that much-needed depth in their options. “Actually, No. 5 is ideal for him,” said Pujara. “He is sure to get some play of late and can play naturally only when he comes in around the 25-30-over mark.”
He even pointed out the tactical advantages behind the plan. “If Gill is at five, Rishabh Pant can be saved for the older ball, meaning his risk of being left at the other end of that new ball will decrease if wickets are falling early,”
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