As India gears up for a new chapter in Test cricket without Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, legendary Australian captain Ricky Ponting has suggested a fresh batting order to handle the pressure of the upcoming England tour. India faces England in the first of five Tests at Headingley starting June 20, with Shubman Gill leading a young squad.
Ponting believes that Gill should take over Kohli’s iconic No.4 spot, as it would allow him to focus better on his captaincy duties.
“Not having to open or bat at No.3 as a young captain might make life easier for Gill,” Ponting said on The ICC Review.
Sudharsan & Jaiswal to Open, Rahul at No.3?
Ponting has backed IPL star Sai Sudharsan and Yashasvi Jaiswal to open the innings in England, pointing to their solid technique and attacking mindset.
“Sudharsan looks like a class player to me. Technically, I think he could do well at Test level,” Ponting added.
Instead of letting KL Rahul open, Ponting suggests slotting him at No.3, using his experience to anchor the young top order. He also believes Karun Nair could be a contender for that spot.
KL Rahul’s Strong Case
KL Rahul reinforced his credentials with a century (116 runs) in the second India A warm-up game against England Lions. Despite being considered as an opener, Ponting thinks Rahul’s experience is better suited in the middle order now that India is transitioning.
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