IND vs ZIM LIVE: Not Shubman Gill, ex player Maninder Singh wants KL Rahul to open with Shikhar Dhawan in Zimbabwe, says ‘Best spot for him’

IND vs ZIM LIVE: Shubman Gill vs KL Rahul: Former India cricketer Maninder Singh is very clear about India’s opening pair for the ODI series. He wants the experienced duo of KL Rahul and Shikhar Dhawan to bat at number one and two for India. However, the former spinner wants Shubman Gill, who starred in the last series against West Indies, to bat in the middle order. Follow India vs Zimbabwe ODI series live with InsideSport.IN

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It is important to note that Gill finished as the highest-run scorer in the West Indies ODI series, scoring 64, 43 and an unbeaten 98. It helped him win the ODI series, but the return of KL Rahul changes scenario at the top.

IND vs ZIM LIVE: Not Shubman Gill, ex player Maninder Singh wants KL Rahul to open with Shikhar Dhawan in Zimbabwe, says ‘Best spot for him’

“As KL Rahul is back into the side, he should straight away open the innings. That is the spot for him, where he scored a lot and helped India put in strong position,” said Maninder Singh in a virtual interaction organised by Sony Sports Network.

It makes complete sense with Rahul as an opener. The Karnataka batter has spent most of his batting career as an opener, where he has scored big runs. He has the ability to play the long innings and has a wonderful temperament to deliver in the ODI format as well.

And also, with Rahul set to open in the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup, it helps him prepare for that role. It is important to note that the player needs more time in the middle with the batter having not played any competitive cricket since the last IPL. He underwent a hernia surgery and contracted Covid before making his return for the upcoming tour of Zimbabwe.

IND vs ZIM LIVE: Not Shubman Gill, ex player Maninder Singh wants KL Rahul to open with Shikhar Dhawan in Zimbabwe, says ‘Best spot for him’

However, the former spinner also sang praise about Shubman Gill, who he wants to bat in the middle order. With Punjab lad in good form, one cannot just ignore him, and including him will only bolster the playing XI for the upcoming series. Besides, runs under his belt in Zimbabwe will only increase Gill’s confidence.

“It also depends on the coach and the captain who they want in middle order. I believe whoever is in form, should be in the playing XI. The biggest advantage about Gill is that you send him in any number, he will score for you. Sometimes he scores runs and then two three innings go without much runs. So when he starts being consistent, then the confidence level will grow. He is a cricketer to watch out for,” he added.