“He should bat at No.5,” Former India pacer backs Ishan Kishan to become KL Rahul’s backup at ODI World Cup

Ishan Kishan has batted in the middle order but has not been able to replicate his performance from while opening the innings.

“He should bat at No.5,” Former India pacer backs Ishan Kishan to become KL Rahul’s backup at ODI World Cup

Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul (mages via News18, India Today)

Former Indian fast bowler Rudra Pratap Singh (RP Singh) has proposed that wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan be inserted into the crucial No. 5 position. With KL Rahul’s uncertain availability in mind, Singh’s proposal acquires traction. Singh views Kishan as a viable replacement for Rahul in the event of his absence and advocates for his acclimation to the middle-order position in the lead-up to the World Cup.

The composition of India’s middle order is uncertain as the 2023 ODI World Cup approaches, and India finds itself in a precarious position as a result. The rehabilitation progress of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, two crucial middle-order batsmen, has come under intense scrutiny, leaving a vacuum that must be filled prior to the October start of the premier tournament.

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“It doesn’t work out with just one chance. According to me, Ishan should play at No. 5 if you see him at No. 5 for the (ODI) World Cup. If KL Rahul is unavailable in the future, Ishan Kishan is his backup option,” Singh told JioCinema (via The Indian Express).

Recent performances have strengthened Kishan’s case for a significant role in the ODI team. Kishan shone brightly while opening the innings with Shubman Gill in the Caribbean, scoring three consecutive half-centuries and playing a crucial role in India’s 2-1 series victory over the West Indies. As he assumed the responsibilities at the top of the lineup, his adaptability was on full display, and he demonstrated the potential to be a lineup-altering player.

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RP Singh wants Ishan Kishan to learn to bat in the middle order

Ishan Kishan West Indies tour
Ishan Kishan batting (Image via BCCI Twitter)

RP Singh emphasizes the significance of Kishan’s preparation for a middle-order position due to the expected return of Rohit Sharma as the opener. Singh envisions Sharma and Gill as a formidable opening duo, so his recommendation is founded on strategic planning. 

This dynamic pairing, while promising, limits Kishan’s chances of attaining a position at the summit. Therefore, Singh emphasizes the need for Kishan to hone his skills and mentality for a role in the middle order in order to be prepared to contribute effectively when necessary.

Kishan’s adaptability and impressive ODI track record, which includes a double century and six fifties, make him a valuable asset for India’s World Cup campaign. Kishan has an opportunity to solidify his position in the middle order due to the ongoing recovery of Rahul and Iyer, and Singh’s strategic proposition.

As India’s selectors and team management race against the clock to finalize their lineup, the notion of Ishan Kishan occupying the No. 5 spot is an intriguing possibility. With a combination of skill, versatility, and Singh’s support, Kishan could emerge as the linchpin in India’s pursuit of ODI glory at the upcoming World Cup.

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