Rohit Sharma’s Statement on Opening Spot in India’s Playing XI
Ahead of the India vs. Australia Adelaide Test, regular captain and opener Rohit Sharma has rejoined the Indian squad. Rohit had missed the first Test due to personal reasons, during which KL Rahul opened alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. With Rohit’s return, the question of who will open arose, but Rohit has provided a clear answer.
In a press conference before the second Test, Rohit Sharma announced that KL Rahul will continue to open with Yashasvi Jaiswal, while he will move to the middle order. During the Perth Test, KL Rahul impressed with a brilliant 77-run knock in the second innings, which led Rohit to make this decision for the team’s benefit.
Rohit Sharma on the Batting Order
Rohit explained that the top four batting positions have been finalized:
- Openers: Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul
- No. 3: Shubman Gill
- No. 4: Virat Kohli
Rohit added that he might bat at No. 5 or No. 6, positions where he has a strong record. He emphasized that this decision aligns with the team’s strategy and that batting in the middle order could benefit the team. Rohit has a batting average of over 50 at No. 6 and has previously delivered explosive performances from this position.
Rohit’s Praise for KL Rahul
Speaking about KL Rahul, Rohit said:
“Yes, he (KL Rahul) will open, and I will bat somewhere in the middle order. I saw Rahul batting at home, and he performed brilliantly. There’s no need to change the opening pair. KL Rahul’s ability to bat effectively on foreign pitches makes him the natural choice for the opener.”
This adjustment reflects a flexible team-first approach, and cricket fans will be keen to see how this impacts India’s batting dynamics in the Adelaide Test.
