As India prepares for the upcoming three-match T20I series in the Men in Blue’s multi-format Tour of South Africa 2023-24, the task of managing the batting order poses a significant challenge for skipper Suryakumar Yadav.
The outstanding performance of the opening duo, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad, in the recently concluded T20I series against Australia has garnered significant praise from the cricket fanatics. However, the return of the seasoned opener, Shubman Gill, further complicates the decision-making process regarding the opening slots.
In addressing the intricate team dynamics, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has shared his insights on effectively handling the team’s batting positions. As the team management contemplates the optimal combination, striking a balance between in-form players and experienced campaigners like Gill becomes crucial for a successful campaign against the Proteas.
Sanjay Manjrekar on Shubman Gill
Manjrekar pondered whether India should consider altering the opening combination of Ruturaj and Yashasvi. He suggested a compromise, proposing that the duo should continue as openers, with Gill positioned at no. 3.
“Will India think of disturbing this opening combination of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal? However, Shubman Gill has that track record. My compromise would be Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad to continue and Shubman Gill at No. 3,” Manjrekar said during a discussion on Star Sports’ show Gameplan.
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Sanjay Manjrekar on Ishan Kishan
Manjrekar further expressed difficulty in fitting Ishan Kishan into the batting order, suggesting a lineup with Suryakumar at no. 4, followed by Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh and Shreyas Iyer. He acknowledged the team’s impressive depth as a big hurdle in accommodating Kishan.
“I will bat Suryakumar Yadav at No. 4. Then you have got Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh and Shreyas Iyer – that’s your batting order. There is tremendous depth. How do I fit in Ishan Kishan? I am struggling,” the 58-year-old added.