Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has highlighted that KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal are currently India’s best opening pair as the team prepares for the upcoming Test match in Adelaide. After Day 2 of the first Test in Perth, Manjrekar discussed the selection challenges facing India for the second Test.
With Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill set to join the team for the Pink Ball Test, India will face the challenge of fitting these players into their preferred batting positions. On ESPNcricinfo, Manjrekar emphasized that Jaiswal and Rahul make an excellent opening duo that should be retained for the Adelaide Test. However, he noted that it will ultimately be up to Rohit Sharma to decide if he wants to move down to bat at number three.
In the second innings of the Perth Test, Jaiswal and Rahul impressively scored 201 runs together, marking the first double-century partnership by an opening pair in Australia. Manjrekar stated, “KL Rahul is in great form. Jaiswal and Rahul are likely to form the best opening combination. Given his current performance, Rohit might consider batting lower down the order.”
Manjrekar also mentioned the possibility of making changes to the bowling lineup, suggesting that Washington Sundar could come in for bowlers like Ashwin or Jadeja. Though, he acknowledged that such decisions would be difficult, as Rohit would have to weigh his options carefully.
With Shubman Gill also vying for a spot in the lineup, simply dropping KL Rahul would not resolve India’s selection issues. Manjrekar stressed the importance of having KL Rahul in the top three to effectively counter Australia’s strong new ball attack.
He also shared thoughts from Cheteshwar Pujara, who suggested that KL Rahul should bat at number three, with Gill coming in lower down. This moves would leverage Rahul’s technique and current form to tackle the challenges posed by Australia’s bowling, particularly with the new pink ball in the upcoming match. Manjrekar concluded by reiterating the need for careful consideration in the selection process as India heads into this crucial Test.
