CANBERRA, Nov 29, 2024 – Even with the return of India’s skipper Rohit Sharma, veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara has expressed his preference for K.L. Rahul to continue opening the batting alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal in the second Test against Australia. Rahul’s successful stint at the top of the order in the series opener in Perth, filling in for the absent Rohit, has led Pujara to suggest that the team should stick with the winning combination.
In a dominant 295-run victory in the first Test, Jaiswal scored a memorable century, while Rahul contributed solidly with scores of 26 and 77. Pujara, who has been a cornerstone of India’s batting in previous tours to Australia, feels that changing a winning formula could disrupt the momentum gained from such a comprehensive win.
Pujara’s Ideal Batting Order
During a chat with ESPNcricinfo, Pujara stated: “If we can carry on with the same batting order, like KL and Yashasvi opening, Rohit could come in at three, and Shubman could come in at five.” He further emphasized, “If Rohit wants to open, KL should bat at No. 3. Nothing later than that. I think he has to bat at the top of the order, because it suits his game really well. I hope we don’t tinker around with that.”
Shubman Gill’s Role in the Line-up
With Shubman Gill set to return after missing the first Test due to a thumb injury, Pujara believes the right time for Gill to come in would be at No. 5. “Ideally, No. 5 for Gill,” Pujara explained. “That allows him to play his natural game – if we lose a couple of early wickets, he can negotiate the new ball, and if he comes in later, he can play his shots freely.”
Pujara also noted that this batting order would help protect Rishabh Pant, ensuring he doesn’t have to face the new ball, which could be challenging for the left-hander. “I wouldn’t want him to walk in when the ball is hard and new,” Pujara added.
Warm-up Game Ahead of Pink-ball Test
As India prepares for the day-night Test against Australia in Adelaide, a two-day warm-up game against the Australian PM’s XI in Canberra will provide the team with a chance to test out combinations and fine-tune strategies. This match will be crucial for assessing the fitness of players like Gill and further determining the best batting order for the series.
With the team showing strong form and a well-balanced line-up, the upcoming Tests promise to be thrilling as India looks to continue their success on Australian soil.
