Published: Sep 12, 2019, 03:05 PM (IST)
Edited: Sep 12, 2019, 03:05 PM (IST)
With KL Rahul failing to find form as a Test opener, Indian selectors may pick Rohit Sharma to open the innings during the three-match Test series against South Africa, starting October 2.
Former Australia wicketkeeper-batsman Adam Gilchrist has backed Rohit for the role. While Gilchrist highlighted that it might be challenging for Rohit as a Test opener when India travels to England, Australia and South Africa, the Australian is sure that the right-hander can open the innings when India is playing at home.
“When the Indian team is playing at home, Rohit can most definitely play as an opener. It might be more challenging when touring Australia, South Africa and England,” Gilchrist was quoted as saying by The Hindu,
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“I love Rohit. We’ve played together for Deccan Chargers in the IPL. I think Rohit deceives people. By that I mean that since he is a laidback guy, people might think he is not working hard enough. In reality, he is world-class. If Rohit wants to be an opener, there is no reason why he cannot succeed,” added Gilchrist.
Earlier this week, MSK Prasad, chairman of selectors, had backed Rohit’s case as a Test opener, despite the fact Rohit has never opened the innings in the longest format of the game.
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“As selection committee we haven’t met after the conclusion of the West Indies tour. We will definitely take this (Rohit as opener) point into consideration when we all meet and discuss about it,” Prasad had told India Today.
