Potential Indian batting roster in England, sans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
In the wake of Rohit Sharma's retirement and Virat Kohli potentially following suit, India's Test lineup for the challenging England tour might undergo a transformation. Here's a possible lineup that could take shape:
Top Order
The young and talented Yashasvi Jaiswal could make the cut, despite boasting less than 20 Tests under his belt. At 23, he's poised for a long career, having already toured down under, South Africa, and the West Indies. However, English conditions may test his skills, particularly regarding seam bowling.
Sharing the crease with Jaiswal, a fresh face named Sai Sudharsan might appear. Although not yet to wear the India Test whites, his performance in County Championship and Ranji Trophies is commendable. Adding to his credentials, he showed considerable mettle in the IPL, just shy of regaining the Orange Cap.
At Number 3 slots Shubman Gill, who has taken charge since Cheteshwar Pujara took a back seat. His average of 38 in this position, with three centuries, is noteworthy, but it needs to improve for more success abroad.
Middle Order
Kohli's rumored absence from the squad could open the door for KL Rahul to secure his place at number 4. Rahul has versatility, playing at No.3, No.4, No.6, and even as an opener. His performance in England isn't remarkable, averaging 34 with two hundreds, both as an opener.
Rishabh Pant, as India's first-choice Test wicketkeeper, will be a fixture in the team, as will experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. The middle order's remaining spot might be contested between Shreyas Iyer and Devdutt Padikkal. Iyer has been exceptional since losing his Test spot, while Padikkal has made his mark in the domestic matches he's played so far.
The other areas of the lower order can be filled by Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, and Nitish Kumar Reddy.
Backups
As a potential opener backup, India could opt for Abhimanyu Easwaran, who has been in the India A squad but yet to make his Test debut.
Dhruv Jurel has shown promise in his brief stints, with a clean defensive technique and scoring shots aplenty. Furthermore, he could play as a specialist batter and serve as the second wicketkeeper.
Rajat Patidar, who struggled in the home Tests against England, may get another chance thanks to his strong performance in domestic cricket.
Outside the Box
Sarfaraz Khan might slip behind other contenders when testing his skills on English pitches, as he has only played Tests in India so far. Furthermore, his vulnerability against the short ball is a concern.
Karun Nair, fresh from impressive performances in domestic cricket, could grab another opportunity. Although his IPL comeback has been erratic, a return to the national team isn't out of the question.
The legendary duo of Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara may seem unlikely to make a comeback, but stranger things have happened.
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- Stupendous performances from Kohli are eagerly awaited as he possibly joins the Test lineup for the England tour, bolstering the team's chances with his vast experience.
- In spite of Nadu's impressive cricket news, Jaiswal's average might face a challenge in England, particularly given his relative inexperience with seam bowling.
- Kohli's potential absence could pave the way for a stupendous averages improvement for Shubman Gill at Number 3, given the opportunity to solidify his position in the Test squad.
