November 20, 2024: As India gears up for the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, the question of KL Rahul’s role in the opening slot has become a topic of debate.
Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar has expressed doubts about Rahul being the ideal choice to open the batting in the first Test at Perth’s Optus Stadium, set to begin on November 22.
Manjrekar believes that Rahul is currently low on confidence, which is not ideal for a top-order batsman who needs to set the tempo of the innings. In his comments, Manjrekar said, “It’s not like KL Rahul as an opening option is setting the stage on fire. Going by the reality, KL Rahul currently you can see, you’ve got to feel for him, I love him as a player the kind of talent he has. He looks a bit down on confidence and you don’t want someone like him batting at the top of the order because much of the tempo of the innings is set at the start number 1,2 and 3.”
This assessment reflects concerns about Rahul’s recent form, especially considering the high-pressure role of an opening batsman in an overseas Test series, particularly against a formidable opponent like Australia. The opening partnership is often crucial in establishing a foundation for the team, and a lack of confidence at the top could be detrimental to India’s chances in the early stages of the match.
Manjrekar, however, is not dismissing Rahul’s potential entirely. He suggests that Rahul could be more effective at a lower order, specifically at number six. Drawing from Rahul’s recent performances in South Africa, where he batted at number six with a softer Kookaburra ball, Manjrekar feels Rahul could add more value to the team in that position. He stated, “I’m going by KL Rahul for the work he’s done down the order and very recently in South Africa. He was batting at number six with a softer Kookaburra ball, and if he has to bat with the tailenders, I feel he will be terrific where he’s got the big game as well.” This could be an alternative for India to explore if Rahul isn’t chosen to open, providing the team with greater flexibility and potentially maximizing his strengths in a more supportive role.
The timing of this discussion is significant, as Rahul was recently sidelined for a short period due to an elbow injury after being struck during India’s intra-squad practice match. He did not return for training the following day, but later put in a solid three-hour session to ease concerns over his fitness. Although there were no signs of serious discomfort, Rahul didn’t appear as fluid as before, which could further fuel Manjrekar’s concerns about his readiness for the opening slot.
In addition to Rahul’s uncertainty, Shubman Gill’s injury—he sustained a thumb injury during practice—has further complicated matters for India’s opening combination. With Gill now unavailable for the Perth Test, India may have to turn to other options for the opening slot, with Yashasvi Jaiswal likely to be in the mix.
Looking ahead, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises to be an exciting series, with India facing off against Australia in five Test matches across Australia. After the first Test in Perth, the series will move to Adelaide for a day-night Test, followed by games at The Gabba, Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), and Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The dynamic between the teams, the venues, and the tactical decisions—such as the one surrounding Rahul’s place in the batting order—will be key to the outcome of this highly anticipated series.
