Like India prepare for the important second test South Africaold opener Akash Chopra offered a tactical tweak to the batting line-up Shubman Gill unavailable. Gill, who was discharged from hospital after the first Test, remains uncertain for the upcoming match, prompting discussions around a possible replacement. Chopra believes that India should make a strategic choice instead of just filling the slot with another left-hander.
Aakash Chopra names potential replacements for Shubman Gill
Speaking on her YouTube channel, Chopra claimed this Travel Giikwad Gill is the most likely candidate to make the starting XI unless he recovers in time. His suggestion stems from the balance of India’s current squad, which already provides a heavy presence of left-handed batsmen.
“Should Ruturaj Gaikwad be selected in the test squad? You may wonder how he can be selected as the team has already been selected and no one has turned out. Chopra said. He further noted that Gill’s availability is a “question mark” and India should prepare a backup plan.
Chopra also emphasized that Sai Sudharsan Devdutt padikkalThe two stand-by battles are left-handers—which, if selected, increases the tally of left-handed players to Xi’s unusual seven. India, who took six left-arm wickets in the opening Test, believe they could be risky for another.
“SAI Sudharsan and Devdutt are sitting in your Padikkal – two more from the left. You now have six left arms. Do you want to go seven from the left?” he asked.
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Chopra in The Simon Harmer Factor
Chopra pointed out that right-hander Gaikwad provided an important balance against South Africa’s bowling attack – especially the threat from the spice Simon’s appearancewho dismantled India in the first Test with his subtle change.
The former key pointed out that having another right-handed batter in the middle would help him be more effective in a more effective way than exposing a long chain of lefties instead of overrunning a long chain of lefties. Chopra also praised the Maharashtra fruit’s consistent form across formats, noting his work in domestic cricket as well as in a fixture in India.
“He’s in great form. In black-and-white cricket for India, why doesn’t he play these days when he plays, but wherever he plays – Ranji trophy or duleep trophy – he’s a run.” Chopra observed.
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