Wasim Jaffer Advocates for Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal as Opening Pair in 2nd Test Against England, Not Rohit Sharma
Following India’s disappointing loss to England in the first Test, former cricketer Wasim Jaffer suggests a change in the host team’s batting order. England staged a remarkable comeback, winning by 28 runs in Hyderabad and taking the lead in the five-match IND vs ENG 2024 series.
England faced a daunting situation after trailing by 190 runs in the first innings. They were bowled out for 246, but India responded with 436 runs, featuring noteworthy performances from Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, and Ravindra Jadeja. Despite India’s strong showing, they couldn’t secure victory, as England posted a substantial 420-run total in the second innings, led by Ollie Pope’s impressive knock of 196. Set a target of 231 runs, India fell short, getting bowled out for 202, with debutant Tom Hartley claiming 7 wickets.
Ahead of the crucial second Test, Wasim Jaffer suggests a change in Team India’s batting order. In a statement on January 29, he proposes demoting captain Rohit Sharma to No.3 and reinstating Shubman Gill as the opening batsman. Gill had voluntarily shifted to No.3 last year after Cheteshwar Pujara was dropped.
Strategic Shake-Up: Wasim Jaffer Advocates Batting Order Revamp for Team India in Second Test Against England
Jaffer emphasizes that batting at No.3 isn’t benefiting Gill, suggesting he would perform better as an opener. He also notes Rohit’s proficiency against spin bowling, supporting the idea of him batting at No.3:
“Gill and Jaiswal should open, and Rohit should bat at No.3 in the 2nd test in my opinion. Waiting for his turn isn’t helping Shubman; it’s better he opens the innings. Rohit plays spin really well, so batting at No.3 should not worry him too much.”
Both Rohit and Gill struggled in the first Test, with Rohit getting starts but failing to convert them (24 and 39), and Gill scoring 23 in the first innings before being dismissed for a duck in the second.
19:30 IST
