Gambhir Hopes for Rohit’s Availability
India’s opening batsman and captain, Rohit Sharma, is uncertain for the first Test against Australia in Perth. Gautam Gambhir, India’s coach, expressed hope that Rohit will be available, but he’s prepared with backup options if Rohit cannot play.
In a press conference in Mumbai, Gambhir shared, “We hope Rohit will be available, but we’ll confirm as we get closer to the series.”
Backup Options if Rohit Misses Out
If Rohit doesn’t make it, Gambhir is considering KL Rahul, Abhimanyu Easwaran, or even Shubman Gill to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Gambhir mentioned that Jasprit Bumrah, as vice-captain, would lead the team if Rohit is unavailable.
“With options like KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran, we’ll choose the best lineup for the first Test if needed,” said Gambhir.
Current Squad Situation
Five players, including Mohammed Siraj, Akash Deep, Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar, and Yashasvi Jaiswal, have already left for Australia. The rest of the squad will join them soon, though it’s unclear when Rohit will arrive.
Who Will Open If Rohit Isn’t There?
The focus now is on who will open if Rohit misses out. KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran recently opened for India A, though neither managed significant scores. KL Rahul, initially considered for a middle-order role, may return to the top in Rohit’s absence.
Gambhir highlighted KL Rahul’s versatility, saying, “Rahul’s experience as an opener and his ability to adapt across positions make him valuable, especially if Rohit is absent.”
Shubman Gill: Another Option for the Opening Spot
Shubman Gill, who debuted as an opener in Australia, has since transitioned to the middle order but remains an option for the opening slot. Gambhir stated, “We’ll field the best combination, whether it’s Shubman, Easwaran, or KL.”
The first Test against Australia is set to begin on November 22 in Perth.