IND vs AUS: Ishan Kishan To Open The Innings Alongside Rohit Sharma In Place Of Shubman Gill- Report

In the highly anticipated India vs. Australia clash at the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, Ishan Kishan is likely to partner with Rohit Sharma at the top of the batting order. The Indian team has been faced with concerns surrounding the health of Shubman Gill ahead of their opening World Cup game against Australia.

Reports suggest that Gill’s availability for Sunday’s match remains uncertain. Should Shubman Gill be unable to take the field, Ishan Kishan appears to be the frontrunner to step in.

Renowned for his explosive batting in ODIs, Shubman Gill is currently grappling with health issues, primarily a high temperature. A source within the BCCI, speaking on the condition of anonymity, disclosed that the star Indian opener will undergo tests for dengue on Friday, with a decision on his participation pending the results.

” Shubman has had a high fever since landing in Chennai. His tests are being done. He will have tests on Friday, and a call will be taken on his participation in the opening game,” a BCCI source said.

“Let’s not jump the gun. If it’s a normal viral fever, he could play on antibiotics, but it’s completely the medical team’s call,” the source added.

Shubman Gill’s illness has persisted since he arrived in Chennai, rendering him unable to participate in the Indian team’s practice sessions on Thursday. This development has sparked speculation regarding Rohit Sharma’s opening partner in the crucial clash against Australia. KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan are potential candidates for this role.

KL Rahul Or Ishan Kishan, Who Will Replace Shubman Gill?

KL Rahul is unlikely to be assigned the opening position, given his current role as a middle-order batsman and wicketkeeper, as confirmed by Captain Rohit Sharma and Head Coach Rahul Dravid. In such a scenario, Ishan Kishan emerges as the top choice to take up the opening role. Notably, Kishan has previously performed capably when tasked with the opening duties, as demonstrated during India’s innings against the West Indies.

Additionally, the slow and low playing surface in Chennai is expected to favor R Ashwin, increasing his chances of featuring in the playing XI. Rohit Sharma is keen on capitalizing on the pitch conditions, as Ashwin is known for his effectiveness on home turf. Also, Chennai is Ashwin’s home ground and no one knows that ground better than him in the squad.