KL Rahul's Position Is At No.4 In 2023 World Cup - Saba Karim

Former Indian national selector Saba Karim reckoned KL Rahul as India’s No.4 batter in the ODI format. The search for a proper No.4 for the Indian team is a long hunt before the 2019 World Cup.

Since India are playing their second-string teams recently in the ODI series against West Indies and Zimbabwe, nothing can be confirmed who will bat at which position in the 2023 50-over World Cup to be hosted in India.

Suryakumar Yadav batted at no.4 during the England and West Indies ODI series.

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During the first ODI against Zimbabwe, Rahul had left the opening slot for Shubman Gill and Shikhar Dhawan. It was expected the Indian stand-in skipper would bat at No.4 with Ishan Kishan at No.3.

KL Rahul’s place at this time is No.4 position: Saba Karim

Karim is of the opinion that Rahul, who has batted at No.4 position six times out of his 41 innings, will play in the same capacity for the marquee event next year.

“KL Rahul’s place at this time is No.4 position. This is the reason Shikhar Dhawan and Shubman Gill opened the batting. India’s selectors and team management are looking for a backup opener for the 2023 World Cup,” Karim said on India News.

“Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan will serve as front line openers while Gill can fulfill the role of a backup opener,” he added.

This is a good phase for Shubman Gill: Saba Karim

Gill was unbeaten on 82 off 72 balls in the 192-run stand with Dhawan as India chased the target with 115 balls to spare. Gill smashed 10 fours and a six off Wessly Madhevere in the course of his staggering knock.

“It is very difficult to play across three formats with the right technique, but Gill possesses all those elements. His temperament is good. He had to go through tough challenges where he scored runs,” Karim said.

“This is a good phase for Shubman and I think the team management has marked him as a player who can play all three formats, which is a big thing,” he added.

India will play the second ODI against Zimbabwe on Saturday (August 20) at the Harare Sports Club.

Also Read: IND vs WI: We Might See KL Rahul Bat Up The Order In The Remaining Games: Danish Kaneria