With uncertainty surrounding Rohit Sharma’s availability for the first Test against Australia in Perth, Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, has assured that the team has several viable options to open the batting in his absence.
Rohit, who is a key figure in India’s top order, is reportedly doubtful for the series opener due to personal reasons. While Gambhir expressed hope that the veteran opener would be fit and available, he confirmed that India has a number of alternatives should Rohit miss out. Among the contenders are KL Rahul, Abhimanyu Easwaran, and Shubman Gill, all of whom are in the squad and capable of filling the role.
“There are options there, it’s not that there are no options,” Gambhir stated during a press conference in Mumbai before the squad’s departure for Australia. “We will take a call closer to the first Test match if Rohit is not available. Obviously, KL and Abhimanyu are there. We also have Shubman Gill, who has opened in the past. So, there are quite a few options in the squad, and we’ll plan accordingly.”
KL Rahul, initially set to play as a middle-order batter, has now been reintroduced into the conversation as a potential opener due to Rohit’s uncertainty. Gambhir highlighted Rahul’s adaptability, noting that the 32-year-old has experience opening the batting and can also slot in at No. 3 or No. 6, making him a flexible and valuable asset for the team.
“Rahul can do the job for us if Rohit is not there,” Gambhir said, praising the batter’s ability to perform in various positions across the order. “He has kept wickets in the one-day format as well and has the experience to face the new ball in overseas conditions. Imagine how many countries have players like KL who can do that.”
Rahul has a solid track record in tough overseas conditions, having scored Test centuries in Australia, England, and South Africa, alongside Saeed Anwar, making him one of the few Asian openers to achieve such a feat.
Meanwhile, Abhimanyu Easwaran, who recently played in India’s A team tour of Australia, is another option for the opening slot. However, his recent form has been less than ideal, with low scores in the second four-day match against Australia A. Easwaran’s ability to handle the Australian conditions will be under scrutiny as the team finalizes their selection.
Shubman Gill, who opened the batting during India’s last tour of Australia, is also in the mix. However, Gill has since moved to a more middle-order role in Tests, and his potential return to the top of the order will depend on the team’s strategy.
“Once it gets closer to the first Test match, we’ll assess the situation and select the best playing XI for Perth,” Gambhir said, underlining the importance of getting the right combination for the challenging conditions in Australia.
As the team prepares for the Test series, India is also dealing with the question of who will lead in Rohit’s absence. Gambhir confirmed that in such a scenario, vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah would take over as captain.
“Obviously, Bumrah will be the captain if Rohit is not available,” Gambhir said, making it clear that the fast bowler, who has shown leadership potential, is ready for the challenge.
The first Test of the series will begin on November 22 in Perth, and India’s selection decisions will be closely watched as they look to begin the tour on a strong note.
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