AUS vs IND: Cheteshwar Pujara picks KL Rahul’s ideal batting position for the Pink Ball Test

Nov 29, 2024

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AUS vs IND: Cheteshwar Pujara picks KL Rahul’s ideal batting position for the Pink Ball Test

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Cheteshwar Pujara on KL Rahul batting order for Adelaide Test

Team India head into the Pink Ball Test in Adelaide brimming with confidence after their commanding win in Perth. The victory, marked by a clinical all-round performance, has provided the team with much-needed momentum as they gear up for the second Test against Australia. While India’s bowling attack performed exceptionally in Perth, the batting unit showcased depth and resilience, setting the stage for strategic adjustments to suit the challenging conditions under lights in Adelaide.

Where should KL Rahul bat? Cheteshwar Pujara answers

A key topic of discussion in the Indian lineup is KL Rahul’s batting position. In the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, Rahul opened the innings in Perth and left a strong impression with his composed knock on a challenging pitch. His performance provided India with a solid start and showcased his exceptional skills.

With Rohit now rejoining the squad to lead the visitors in the second Test, the question arises: where should Rahul slot into the batting order? Sharing his thoughts on the matter, senior Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara offered two perspectives. Pujara’s first suggestion was to let Rahul continue opening the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, while Rohit moves down to bat at No. 3.

“For some reason, if we can carry on with the same batting order, like KL and Yashasvi to open, Rohit could come in at three, and Shubman could come in at five,” Pujara said in a conversation with ESPNcricinfo.

Alternatively, Pujara proposed that if Rohit opts to open, Rahul should take the No. 3 position, as his batting style is best suited for the top order and should not be pushed further down.

“If Rohit wants to open, KL should bat at No. 3. Nothing later than that. He has to bat top of the order, because it suits his game really well. I hope we don’t tinker around with that,” added Pujara.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Here’s how India have flared in pink-ball Tests

Pujara discusses batting order of Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant

Pujara also addressed the conundrum of Shubman Gill‘s ideal position. He recommended slotting Gill at No. 5, citing his ability to handle different game situations.

“Ideally No. 5. Even if we lose two wickets early, he can negotiate the new ball. But if he comes in after 25 or 30 overs, he can play his natural game,” observed Pujara.

This adjustment would likely push Rishabh Pant, who batted at No. 5 in Perth, down to No. 6. Pujara explained the tactical move, stating, “Gill walking in earlier saves Rishabh Pant for the old ball. [Pant] doesn’t have to face the new ball. I wouldn’t want him to bat when the ball is hard and new.”

Such a batting shuffle would mean Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel could make way for more experienced players in the lineup, enhancing India’s depth in batting.