In the build-up to the highly anticipated World Cup clash between India and Australia, there’s a twist in the tale. Shubman Gill, India’s promising opener, is facing uncertainty due to a recent bout with dengue fever. Initial reports suggested he might miss the game, but there’s still hope for his presence on the field this Sunday in Chennai.
If Gill is unable to recover in time, the spotlight will shift to Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul, both vying for the crucial opening slot alongside captain Rohit Sharma.
Gill’s absence is a significant blow to India. His stellar form has not only solidified his position but also allowed selectors to make bold decisions, like dropping Shikhar Dhawan. Gill is the leading run-scorer in ODIs this year, with 1230 runs at an average of 72.35 and a strike rate of 105.03. In his last four ODIs, he scored two centuries and a half-century, two of them against Australia.
Ishan Kishan, who has impressed as an opener with three half-centuries in five ODIs this year, is ready to step up. KL Rahul, returning from injury, last opened in an ODI in August 2022, boasting 915 runs at an average of 43.57 in his 23 ODI openings.
With Gill sidelined, Ishan Kishan has a chance to shine in his preferred position. His versatility makes him a valuable asset, as he can also serve as a backup wicketkeeper-batter and offer stability to the top and middle order. His brilliant 82 against Pakistan in the Asia Cup showcased his potential as a top-order batsman, with an average of 74.66 and a strike rate of 125.13, including a double century against Bangladesh last year.
Given the spin-friendly conditions in Chennai, India is likely to opt for Ravichandran Ashwin over a third seamer, Shardul Thakur, forming a three-pronged spin attack with Kuldeep Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja.
India’s Probable XI for the Australia Game:
- Ishan Kishan
- Rohit Sharma (c)
- Virat Kohli
- Shreyas Iyer
- KL Rahul (wk)
- Hardik Pandya
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Ravichandran Ashwin
- Kuldeep Yadav
- Mohammed Siraj
- Jasprit Bumrah
As the countdown to this exciting clash begins, all eyes will be on the emerging openers, Kishan and Rahul, who have a golden opportunity to prove their mettle. Gill’s absence may be a setback, but it also presents a chance for India to discover new talent and adapt to the challenging circumstances of international cricket.
