Ambati Rayudu has Sealed Number Four Position - VVS Laxman

Former Indian talisman batsman VVS Laxman believes Ambati Rayudu has sealed the number four position for the ICC World Cup 2019. Rayudu has come up with consistent performances while batting at the troublesome position for the India National Cricket Team. The right-hander has delivered the goods and he is going to play a key role in India’s success.

Rayudu has scored a fighting knock of 91 runs in the final and fifth ODI against New Zealand. India had their backs against the wall as they were tottering for 18-4 after losing their top order cheaply. However, the right-hander was able to bail his team out of trouble.

“Rayadu has been performing really well recently. He made his presence felt with a quality knock of 90 in the last ODI against New Zealand, with the knock emerging as a matchwinning one. Rayadu has sealed the position,” VVS Laxman said at WION Global Summit in Dubai.

Meanwhile, VVS Laxman feels India’s former skipper MS Dhoni should bat at his usual position of number five. Laxman believes Dhoni can take the innings forward while batting at number five. The former batsman said Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav can provide the finishing touches.

“In my opinion, MSD should play at the No 5 position as he can anchor the innings well and finishes the game off as well. There is enough depth in the lineup with the likes of Hardik Pandya and Kedar Jadhav available as well. I believe that the playing 11 is sorted out,” he added.

Furthermore, Laxman also showered praise on Indian skipper Virat Kohli. Laxman said Kohli leads from the front as he instills the confidence in his players. Kohli has led the team with great authority and he has done wonders for the team.

Laxman said, “Kohli sets an example which rubs off on the other players as well. The Indian team currently has an edge due to the improved fielding standards. This will help the team do well in tough conditions.”

India has been in fine form in the last year. They have won the ODI series in South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. Thus, they have proved their mettle in foreign conditions. India won against South Africa by 5-1, they beat Australia 2-1 and thrashed New Zealand by 4-1.

“India is peaking at the right time. Their performances in the recent away series against Australia and New Zealand indicate that they can be world beaters. If the current Indian side emerges victorious in the World Cup, then they will have ticked all the boxes as they have done well in Test matches and ODI clashes as well. Their performance against South Africa in the ODI series away from home cannot be forgotten as well,” added Laxman.

India has ticked the right boxes in the last year. They are a confident unit which is led by a leader who is at the top of his game. India has covered most of the bases and would aim to go all the way in the World Cup.