India vs Australia: “I would go for Shaw as opener in Tests” – Sanjay Manjrekar backs out-of-form Prithvi Shaw

India vs Australia: “I would go for Shaw as opener in Tests” – Sanjay Manjrekar backs out-of-form Prithvi Shaw
Prithvi Shaw
Prithvi Shaw

Even as India’s tour of Australia is already underway with the first ODI having concluded with a win for the hosts, the Test series that is scheduled to begin on December 17 is arguably, the most awaited series of the year. India emerged 2-1 victors the last time around but Australia buoyed by the return of David Warner and Steve Smith will go into this series as favorites.

A lot of questions remain over India’s playing XI for the Tests. While the middle-order seems settled and near certain, there are quite a few options to choose from, as far as openers are concerned. Mayank Agarwal seems to have his place in the team assured. It is with regard to the second option that the management will have a decision to make.

There are various options to choose from including KL Rahul who has been in sublime touch in the limited overs format in 2020. Young Shubman Gill is also awaiting a chance to make his Test debut. But Prithvi Shaw will be favorite to claim that second opening spot despite his lean patch in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

‘I would go for Prithvi Shaw’ – Sanjay Manjrekar

Sanjay Manjrekar

Former Indian cricketer and current commentator Sanjay Manjrekar offered his take on the Indian Test side and who he thinks should open the batting for India. “Mayank Agarwal walks in as opener in Tests and if Rohit is not playing the first two Tests, I would go for Prithvi Shaw as the second opener. Let’s see how it goes and if Shaw shows the poor form as he did in the IPL, then Shubman Gill can be looked at,” he told ANI.

The former batsman also spoke about how the batting order should look in skipper Virat Kohli’s absence on paternity leave. “In Virat’s absence, Ajinkya Rahane should step up and bat at number four. Hanuma Vihari can bat at number five, if Shubman is tried in the middle order, then he should bat at number six,” Manjrekar added.

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