As India advances into the Super 4 stage of the Asia Cup 2023, the return of KL Rahul from injury adds a sweet dilemma for the team management. The fit-again Rahul is anticipated to play a pivotal role in India’s campaign at the upcoming ODI World Cup. Consequently, it’s crucial to get him some game time. However, the burning question remains: Who will he replace in the current lineup?
Legendary Indian batsman Sunil Gavaskar believes it would be unjust to replace Ishan Kishan, given his recent form. Specifically, Kishan’s splendid knock against Pakistan has solidified his position in the squad. Gavaskar suggests that the young wicket-keeper should retain his spot in the playing XI.
During a conversation with India Today, Gavaskar threw light on another possible replacement—Shreyas Iyer. He advised monitoring Iyer’s performance. If Iyer fails to make an impact, it could pave the way for KL Rahul’s inclusion. Gavaskar asserted that in such a scenario, both Rahul and Kishan could fill the middle-order slots at four and five.
Sunil Gavaskar Picks His Choice Between Ishan Kishan And KL Rahul
Additionally, Gavaskar emphasized the unfairness of dropping Kishan after his significant 80-run innings. He pointed out that Kishan’s left-handed batting brings a distinct dynamic to the Indian top order. This diversity in the lineup, he argues, is essential for the team’s overall strategy.
KL Rahul, who was sidelined due to injury for the initial matches of Asia Cup 2023, has now been declared fit. With this development, the team management faces the challenging task of fitting him into an already well-performing squad. Rahul’s experience and batting prowess are undeniable assets. On the other hand, dropping a young and in-form player like Kishan could impact his confidence adversely.
“I would actually wait and see what Shreyas Iyer does against Nepal as well. And if he doesn’t get runs in the game against Nepal, he might not even get an opportunity to bat. He could probably bat, you know, because against Nepal, if India go for 50 overs, the top three batters could possibly bat 40 odd overs. But otherwise I would look at, you know, in case Shreyas Iyer doesn’t get runs, then I would look at both Rahul and Kishan batting at four and five. You can’t drop is after he got 80. He’s got an 80 in trying circumstances. don’t think you can drop him. It’s not fair to him. And he, like I said, he brings a left-handed dimension to the Indian top order,” Gavaskar told India Today.
Yet, Gavaskar’s suggestion offers a balanced resolution. It essentially keeps the team’s core intact while integrating an experienced player. Moreover, it allows the team to evaluate Shreyas Iyer’s form objectively, without hastily sidelining him. This nuanced approach not only adds depth to the batting order but also ensures the right players are in form as India moves deeper into the tournament.
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Undoubtedly, these selection conundrums are a sign of the squad’s overall strength. Teams often dream of having such problems, where they have to choose between two extremely talented players. And as the tournament progresses, these decisions could very well determine whether India manages to lift the Asia Cup or not.
In the grand scheme of things, the upcoming matches will provide more clarity. But one thing is certain: India’s deep bench strength is a luxury, and how they manage this wealth of talent will be a subplot to follow as the Asia Cup unfolds.
