Rohit Sharma to Bat in Middle Order as KL Rahul Retains Opening Spot for Pink-Ball Test
On the eve of India’s pink-ball Test in Adelaide, captain Rohit Sharma confirmed that KL Rahul would continue opening the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal.
This decision comes after Rahul’s impressive performance in the first Test in Perth, where he stepped in for the absent Rohit. Meanwhile, Rohit will move down to the middle order, prioritizing the team’s needs.
“KL will open the innings, and I will play somewhere in the middle,” Rohit announced on Thursday. “Not easy for me, but it’s the best for the team. What KL has shown outside India, he deserves that place.”
KL Rahul’s Stellar Show in Perth
In the first Test, KL Rahul demonstrated exceptional technical acumen, playing responsibly against Australia’s potent pace attack.
In a challenging first innings where India managed only 150 runs, Rahul scored a steady 26 off 74 balls, standing firm while others fell cheaply.
He built on this in the second innings, crafting a crucial 77 off 176 deliveries, which helped India recover and take control.
Rohit, who missed the match due to the birth of his second child, praised Rahul’s partnership with Jaiswal in the second innings. Their record 201-run stand set the platform for a commanding 295-run victory.
“Those two guys at the top batted brilliantly in Perth,” Rohit said. “Rahul was brilliant to watch. He deserves that place at this point in time. There’s no need to change that now, although things may be different in the future.”
Newcomers Shine in Debut Performances
The absence of key players in the first Test allowed debutants Nitish Reddy and Harshit Rana to make their mark. Both delivered standout performances under pressure, earning praise from Rohit.
Nitish top-scored in India’s first innings with 41, providing a vital contribution in a difficult situation. Harshit Rana impressed with the ball, matching Jasprit Bumrah’s aggression and accuracy.
Rana claimed three wickets in Australia’s first innings, including a stunning delivery to dismiss Travis Head.
In the second innings, Nitish’s counter-attacking batting hastened India’s declaration, and both contributed with key dismissals during Australia’s chase.
“They showed no signs of nerves,” Rohit remarked. “It never felt like they were playing their first game. Their body language was superb, and they took on the heat brilliantly. These are the kinds of players you need for big series.”
Rohit’s Middle-Order Shift and Recent Form
Rohit’s move to the middle order marks a significant adjustment, especially considering his prolific record as an opener since 2019.
Despite his struggles in the recent home series against New Zealand, where he managed just 93 runs in six innings, Rohit remains one of India’s most reliable Test performers.
“Personally, it wasn’t easy (to move down), but for the team, it made a lot of sense,” Rohit explained. “We want results and success, and this decision aligns with those goals.”
Ashwin and Jadeja’s Role in the Series
India’s spin stalwarts, Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja, were sidelined for the Perth Test in favor of seam-heavy conditions.
However, Rohit assured that both players would play crucial roles in the remaining matches, depending on pitch conditions.
“These two have been massive contributors to India’s success,” Rohit stated. “We will assess the conditions and decide accordingly.”
He also commended Washington Sundar, who stepped in as the lone spinner in Perth. “Washington is a solid all-rounder. He gives confidence to the team. I hope he stays injury-free and continues to grow.”
India Aiming for Series Domination
As India heads into the pink-ball Test, the team is buoyed by its remarkable win in Perth. With Rahul maintaining his position at the top and fresh talent stepping up, India looks poised for further success.
Rohit concluded by emphasizing the importance of building on the momentum. “It’s about continuing to perform and delivering as a team. These are the players who will take Indian cricket forward.”
