As India Be prepared for an important second test against South Africaformer opening batsman Aakash Chopra A tactical change in the batting lineup is suggested in case Shubman Gill is unavailable. Gill, who was discharged from hospital after the first Test, still remains uncertain for the upcoming match, which has sparked discussions about a possible replacement. Chopra believes that India should choose a strategic option instead of filling the spot with another left-hander.
Aakash Chopra names a possible replacement for Shubman Gill
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra emphasized this Ruturaj Gaikwad If Gill does not recover in time, he is the best candidate to make it to the playing eleven. His suggestion stems from India’s current team balance, which already has a heavy presence of left-handed batsmen.
“Should Ruturaj Gaikwad be selected in the Test team? You might be wondering how he can be selected as the team has already been selected and no one is out. There is still no clarity on Shubman Gill’s participation,” Chopra said. He further said that Gill’s availability remains a ‘question mark’ and India should be prepared with a backup plan.
Chopra highlighted that both Sai Sudarshan and Devdutt PadikkalThe two batsmen on standby are left-handers – if one of these is selected the number of left-handed players in the XI unusually increases to seven. Since India are already fielding six left-handers in the opening Test, he believes adding one more player could be risky.
“You have Sai Sudarshan and Devdutt Padikkal sitting out – two more left-handers. You already have six left-handers in the XI. Do you want to go with seven left-handers?” He asked question.
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Chopra on the Simon Harmer factor
Chopra pointed out that the right-handed Gaikwad provides an important balance against South Africa’s bowling attack – particularly the threat posed by the experienced off-spinner. simon harmerWho destroyed India in the first test with his subtle variations.
The former opening batsman stressed that having another right-handed batsman in the middle would help him counter Harmer more effectively, rather than exposing a long line of left-handed batsmen to his off-spin. Chopra also praised Gaikwad’s consistently good form across all formats, noting that the Maharashtra batsman has been scoring runs in domestic cricket as well as India A fixtures.
“He is in great form. He is scoring runs for India A in white-ball cricket. Don’t know why he is not played in the formats in the days when India A plays, but wherever he is playing – Ranji Trophy or Duleep Trophy – he is scoring runs.” Chopra saw.
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