ENG vs IND: Aakash Chopra backs Test opening pair of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul to continue post England tour


ENG vs IND: Aakash Chopra backs Test opening pair of Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul to continue post England tour

Aakash Chopra (L), Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has opined that the Virat Kohli-led side must continue with Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul as Test openers even after the England series. He reckoned that the duo must carry on unless something drastic happens.

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Rohit and Rahul have looked like India’s most comfortable batsmen at the crease even in the adverse batting conditions of England. The make-shift opening pair has provided the visitors with great partnerships at the top during the ongoing five-match Test series. In four innings, Rahul has amassed 244 runs, including a brilliant ton at the Lord’s while Rohit has 152 runs against his name.

“Rohit and Rahul (speaking of India’s primary Test openers following the England series). You can’t look elsewhere now unless something drastic happens. If there’s any injury or radical loss or form, Rohit and Rahul will continue to open,” Chopra said on a recent video on his YouTube channel.

“The duo has showcased patience, determination, dedication, and application in their batting. Hence, they are here to stay for a long time. Sorry Mayank and Shubman Gill but you’ll have to wait for your chances,” he added.

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“Not at Headingley” – Chopra on Ravichandran Ashwin’s inclusion in remaining matches

Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin

The cricketer-turned-commentator also talked about Ravichandran Ashwin’s place in the remaining three Test matches against England. Chopra highlighted that India could have played him at the Lord’s where the pitch was a bit dry and tired. However, he refrained from including him at a pace-friendly ground of Headingley, Leeds.

“Not at Headingley (on Ashwin’s inclusion). India did have an opportunity to play Ashwin at Lord’s with the pitch being dry and tired. However, in Leeds, spinners aren’t required much. Moreover, the success of this fast-bowling quartet has instilled fears in England camp,” Chopra stated.

The 43-year-old concluded the chat while saying that although Ravindra Jadeja hasn’t been able to pick any wicket, India didn’t get much hurt.

“Yes, Jadeja hasn’t picked any wicket in the first two games. However, it hasn’t hurt India much. Hence, if Jadeja’s inability to take wickets is not impairing India, where do you will play Ashwin,” he signed off.

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