India vs New Zealand 2019: Three Players Who Can Take Number 3 In Absence Of Virat Kohli For Final 2 ODI Games

Once again, Indian Cricket Board came up with a brilliant thought to keep their golden player in a safe zone. They decided to rest Indian skipper Virat Kohli for a final couple of ODI matches against New Zealand and also for the T20I series. Meanwhile, we figured out 3 players, who might get the nod to play at number 3 for India in his absence.

Here are they:

3. Dinesh Karthik:

Yes, it might be a surprise but certainly, an option, which can’t be ruled out. Dinesh Karthik wasn’t the part of the playing XI in the first ODI and probably, will warm the bench in a remaining couple of games if Indian team does well in 2nd and 3rd ODI games.

But, as Virat Kohli said, the New Zealand series is all about giving games to every player. As Karthik is left with only 2 ODI games in overseas, they might ask him to bat at number 3 position to get the most of the game. Karthik has got the experience in playing at top-order as well.

2. Shubman Gill:

Yeah, the youngster might well make his debut for Indian National Cricket Team. He has been called up as the replacement for suspended KL Rahul in the team following a superb stint at domestic circuit. The young lad could well get his opportunity to display his class.

In fact, there are reports that BCCI selectors are considering Gill for the ICC World Cup 2019 as well. Perhaps, this could be the idea behind resting Virat Kohli as well. Shubman has got great chances in taking the number 3 position.

1. Ambati Rayudu:

When there is a vacancy, the regular and most dependable option for India is Ambati Rayudu. He has always delivered the goods at that position for India. In fact, there was a time when Virat Kohli himself pushed down the order to send Ambati Rayudu at number 3 such has been his ability at the top order.

Most likely, the flamboyant batsman Rayudu would take the vacancy left by Virat Kohli. Of late, especially, in the last 3 overseas games, Rayudu looked a bit rusty in his batting, which could prompt Indian management to give him some good game time by sending at number 3.