As per reports, Shubman Gill has tested positive for dengue and is likely to miss out on the first game against Australia on October 8th. It will be a big blow for Team India because Gill was in pretty good form. India will now have to devise a strategy in the absence of Gill. Here, we take a look at two opening combinations India can try if Shubman Gill misses the Australia game due to dengue.
1) Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan
It is most likely that Rohit and Ishan will open the innings against Australia. This combination has operated before and it would be the safest option for Team India. Also, India would get a left-right combination at the top.
While Ishan’s recent games have been good, it could be worrisome at the start against the likes of Mitchell Starc. Nevertheless, it is a firm challenge for the Jharkhand man. If he does well in this game, it will go a long way in helping his career in the future.
2) Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav
Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav could be a part of this list of opening combinations India can try if Shubman Gill misses the Australia game due to dengue. Actually, this combination could also be an interesting one for India.
SKY has issues against the likes of Starc. However, if Australia brings on spin early, India might need a good player of spin between Rohit and Virat Kohli. Gill was earlier expected to do the job. Now, SKY can be a decent replacement for him. Also, if SKY gets going in the powerplay, it would be a good start for the hosts. India has tried SKY before as an opener in T20Is but that move did not stay for long. It needs to be seen if they would try this again.
Shubman Gill tests positive for dengue, doubtful for Sunday’s opening World Cup game against Australia ( Indian Express ) pic.twitter.com/GegsPsHD4q
Advertisement— Broken Cricket (@BrokenCricket) October 6, 2023
