IND vs SA LIVE: Gearing up for his first home series as captain, KL Rahul races a huge selection conundrum as India prepare for their clash against South Africa. In the absence of team regulars, the Men in Blue have opted for a youthful side. With Rohit Sharma resting, Rahul will have to find a new opening partner, with the likes of Ishan Kishan and Ruturaj Gaikwad both in the mix. Follow India vs South Africa live updates on Insidesport.IN
KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma have been India’s bonafide openers over the years. However, the IND vs SA T20 series is a great opportunity for the hosts to test their bench strength, with Ruturaj Gaikwad and Ishan Kishan among options.
Here, Insidesport.IN looks at players who could open with KL Rahul against South Africa.
IND vs SA Live: KL Rahul’s BIGGEST HEADACHE for 1st T20, who will be his opening partner, Gaikwad or Kishan? Follow Live Updates
1. Ishan Kishan
Ishan Kishan was part of the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup, but the left-hander has struggled for opportunities considering the competition for places. The Mumbai Indians stalwart has done well in his short international career, averaging 32 with a strike rate of 121. The 23-year-old scored 418 runs in the recently concluded IPL 2022, and his versatility offers a left-right combination at the top of the order.
2. Ruturaj Gaikwad
Chennai Super Kings star Ruturaj Gaikwad did not have the best of IPL seasons, but the Indian team management have kept their faith in the 24-year-old. Gaikwad has played just 3 games for India but has failed to make his mark, but opportunities could very well be presented to him in this tour.
IND vs SA Live: KL Rahul’s BIGGEST HEADACHE for 1st T20, who will be his opening partner, Gaikwad or Kishan? Follow Live Updates
3. Venkatesh Iyer
Kolkata Knight Riders star Venkatesh Iyer struggled for form in the IPL, but the Indian management stuck with him after his impressive cameos in international cricket. In his short career, Venkatesh has scored at an average of 33 at an astounding strike rate of 162. While Iyer has never opened in international cricket, the presence of Hardik Pandya could very well give him the opportunity to move up the order.
IND vs SA Live: KL Rahul’s BIGGEST HEADACHE for 1st T20, who will be his opening partner, Gaikwad or Kishan? Follow Live Updates
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