Team India suffered a heavy defeat at the hands of England in the ongoing Test series. Although the bowlers were also not up to the mark, it was the batting department’s failure that was the main reason for India’s loss. The management might consider changing the combination for the Oval Test that will start on September 2nd. In this article, we take a look at two options India has to replace Ajinkya Rahane for the Oval Test.
Ajinkya’s form has been underwhelming in the ongoing series
In three games so far, the Indian vice-captain has been able to accumulate just 95 runs. His average of 19.00 is poor for a player who has so much experience. Not just in this series, but the Mumbai cricketer’s form over the last few months has also not been encouraging. Hence, it would not be a surprise if India replaces him for the Oval Test.
Two options India has to replace Ajinkya Rahane for the Oval Test
The Indian Team actually has a couple of options for who can replace Rahane for the Oval Test. Hanuma Vihari, after missing the England series at home earlier this year, is likely to be the first-choice option. The Andhra cricketer offers solidity in the middle-order, and having been to England before, he also has adequate experience. Moreover, Vihari has played a few County games this season, and the English conditions will not be entirely new to him.
Suryakumar Yadav will be the other option for Virat Kohli and co. SKY was drafted into the squad after Washington Sundar was ruled out. The player is yet to make his Test debut, but he has the experience of being a prolific run-scorer in the Ranji Trophy. He is anyways an in-form cricketer and will be in a good headspace. By including SKY, the squad can have a batsman who can get a few quick runs. As long as he stays at the crease, runs are likely to flow. Hence, he will be an ideal pick in the XI to replace Rahane, who sometimes, takes time to get going.
