WTC Final: Aakash Chopra picks between Shubman Gill and Mayank Agarwal as India’s second opener

WTC Final: Aakash Chopra picks between Shubman Gill and Mayank Agarwal as India’s second opener

Aakash Chopra

Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra opted for Shubman Gill ahead of Mayank Agarwal as the second opener for the much-awaited World Test Championship (WTC) final. Ace cricketer Rohit Sharma is set to feature in the playing XI as the first-choice opening batsman against New Zealand. The Indian team is scheduled to face the Kiwis from June 18 to June 22 at the Rose Bowl, Southampton. 

India’s team management will have a big headache while choosing between Gill and Agarwal. The former impressed during the Australia tour but failed to perform against England in the home Test series. On the other hand, Mayank Agarwal was dropped from the side after a few bad knocks against the Aussies.

The cricketer-turned-commentator mentioned that India should go with Shubman Gill as they shouldn’t compromise with the continuity at the WTC final.

“Between Gill and Mayank, you will have to go towards Gill and you should go as well because Shubman Gill played in your last Test series. He may not have scored the runs but it is better not to compromise the continuity for everyone, even for the player,” said Aakash Chopra in a video uploaded on his YouTube channel. 

Chopra picks Mohammed Shami ahead of Mohammed Siraj

Mohammed Shami
Mohammed Shami

The 43-year old also revealed his choice between Mohammed Shami and Mohammed Siraj in the further interaction. The former cricketer mentioned that the English conditions will suit Shami and he can make a better impact with his pace and swing. However, he revealed that Siraj has also impressed with his recent form across all three formats of the game.

“I will go with Mohammed Shami. It is because Shami is pedigree. If you see the English conditions, Shami’s wrist position is the best in the world, no one releases the ball better from the hand than him,” said Chopra.

“The pace at which he bowls, the long spells he can bowl and the way he can make the ball talk, I am picking Mohammed Shami ahead of Mohammed Siraj. I love Mohammed Siraj but if I have to choose between the two, I am going with Mohammed Shami,” he added.

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