IND vs AUS: Mohammad Kaif Believes Shubman Gill Might Replace KL Rahul As India's Opener In The Test Series

Mohammad Kaif believes Shubman Gill might replace KL Rahul as India’s opener against Australia if the latter fails to impress in his first two innings.

In all game types lately, Gill has been in spectacular form. In the decisive T20I against New Zealand on Wednesday (February 1) in Ahmedabad, the Punjab opener scored an unbeaten 126 off 63 deliveries to lead the Men in Blue to a 168-run victory.

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When asked if it would be tempting to open with Shubman Gill in the Australia series during a conversation on Star Sports,Mohammad Kaif replied:

“Even though KL Rahul is the vice-captain, it might still happen. I believe Rahul will only begin. KL Rahul will be under a lot of strain. He’ll need to start getting runs right immediately. If one or two innings go poorly, Shubman Gill will start in KL Rahul’s place”

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Mohammad Kaif explained why he believes Gill would open the series in the middle order:

“Gill could land a position at No. 5 or No. 6. He will undoubtedly perform. Cheteshwar Pujara will rank third, followed by Virat Kohli at number four. Shreyas Iyer is not yet healthy. Therefore, he may fit at either No. 5 or No. 6.”

“He is a class batter and has form with him”: Mohammad Kaif

Mohammad Kaif believes Gill is deserving of a spot in the playing XI, saying:

“Gill is the type of guy you want to see in the starting lineup. So he’ll find work somewhere or another. He’s a great batter with great form. His batting style is straightforward.”

In his 13 Test matches, Gill has amassed 736 runs at a somewhat below-average average of 32.00. But he has a strong record against Australia, scoring 259 runs at a commendable average of 51.80 in three Test matches, including a significant 91-run effort in the historic victory at the Gabba.

Also Read: IND vs AUS: Ravindra Jadeja Passes Fitness Test; Shreyas Iyer Uncertain For Nagpur Opener- Reports

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