India captain Rohit Sharma has confirmed that KL Rahul will open the batting in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia in Adelaide. Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Rohit revealed that he would move to the middle order despite his success as an opener in Test cricket.
“He’ll be opening the batting; I’ll bat somewhere in the middle,” Rohit said, signaling confidence in Rahul’s abilities after his impressive performance in the first Test. Rahul scored a resilient 77 runs off 176 balls in Perth, contributing to a record-breaking 201-run opening partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal. The innings showcased Rahul’s adaptability and composure at the top of the order.
Rahul, who made his Test debut against Australia in 2014, has amassed 3,084 runs in 54 matches at an average of 34.26 and a strike rate of 52.56. His inclusion as an opener for the Adelaide Test reflects India’s trust in his experience and form.
The Adelaide Test begins on Friday and promises to be a crucial encounter as both teams aim to assert dominance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
He deserves that place: Skipper Rohit Sharma on letting KL Rahul open in Adelaide Test
India skipper Rohit Sharma on Thursday said that his teammate KL Rahul deserves to open the batting lineup in the upcoming Adelaide Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
“We want results, we want success, and those two guys at the top have delivered brilliantly,” Rohit said. “I was watching KL bat at home, and it was brilliant to see. Based on his performances, particularly outside India, he deserves the opening spot. For the team, it was a simple decision, but personally, it wasn’t easy.”
India leads the series 1-0 following a commanding 295-run victory in Perth. The team will look to maintain its momentum in Adelaide, where the pink-ball Test poses unique challenges for both sides. Australia has made adjustments to their lineup, including the return of pacer Scott Boland to replace the injured Josh Hazlewood.
Meanwhile, Australia has announced changes to their lineup, with Scott Boland set to replace the injured Josh Hazlewood. Boland, who last played in the Ashes 2023, returns to the Test side after an 18-month hiatus. Skipper Pat Cummins also confirmed that all-rounder Mitchell Marsh is fit to bowl despite recent back stiffness.
Australia Playing XI for the Second Test: Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey (WK), Pat Cummins (C), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.