Ahead of the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Adelaide, former Indian head coach Ravi Shastri has advocated for a tactical reshuffle in India’s batting line-up. Shastri believes that skipper Rohit Sharma should bat in the middle order instead of opening the innings, a role he has not taken up in six years, while KL Rahul should continue as an opener alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Rohit Returns as Captain
Rohit Sharma, who missed the opening Test in Perth due to the birth of his second child, is set to return to captaincy for the pink-ball Test at the Adelaide Oval starting Friday. However, discussions have centered around his batting position. Traditionally an opener, Rohit may need to adjust his role to accommodate the in-form KL Rahul, who scored a match-winning 77 during a record 201-run opening partnership in Perth.
Shastri’s Recommendation
Speaking on the ICC Review, Shastri explained why moving Rohit to the middle order could strengthen India’s chances. “Rohit is experienced enough to decide where he is most effective against Australia. He should choose the position that Australia would least expect him to bat,” Shastri said.
Rohit, a seasoned middle-order batter in his earlier career, has played 41 innings at No. 5 or lower in Test cricket, amassing 1474 runs at an average of 43.45, including three centuries and nine fifties. His last middle-order appearance was during the 2018/19 Australia tour, where he scored a crucial half-century in Melbourne.
Rahul to Continue Opening
Shastri supported Rahul’s continuation as an opener, citing his strong form in Perth and an unbeaten 27 in a warm-up match in Canberra. “Rahul has found his groove, and with Rohit returning after limited preparation time, it’s better to keep the current opening combination intact,” Shastri suggested.
Shubman Gill’s Return Strengthens Batting
India’s batting options have further solidified with Shubman Gill declared fit to play. Gill, who missed the first Test due to a thumb injury, is expected to slot in at No. 3. Shastri praised the batting line-up, calling it one of the strongest India has fielded in recent years in Australia.
“With Gill fit, this team has tremendous depth. Rohit coming in, Rahul opening, and Gill at No. 3 make for a formidable line-up,” Shastri said.
Bowling Line-Up to Remain Unchanged
Shastri also emphasized the importance of maintaining the same bowling attack from the Perth Test, suggesting consistency in that department would be key to India’s success. “The bowling has been effective, and I wouldn’t touch it. Stability in the line-up is crucial,” he added.
As the Adelaide Test approaches, India faces a unique opportunity to leverage their experienced and versatile batting unit to gain an upper hand in the series.
