Former cricketer Kiran More has expressed his preference for Yashasvi Jaiswal to partner with skipper Rohit Sharma as the opening batsmen in the forthcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. The series, scheduled to commence on January 11, has been a topic of much speculation regarding team composition, especially in the opening slots.
Previously, with Rohit Sharma absent, young talents Shubman Gill and Ruturaj Gaikwad had the opportunity to open with Jaiswal. However, Sharma’s return to the playing XI has stirred a debate on the ideal opening combination. More, weighing in on this debate, emphasized Jaiswal’s impressive performance in T20 cricket, advocating for his inclusion as the opening batsman alongside Sharma. Follow your favourite cricket team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet.
“Yashasvi Jaiswal for me because it’s a left-right combination. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s performances have been exceptional. He shows aggression and talks about fours and sixes from the first ball. I think Shubman Gill is definitely a good player but I will go with a left and right-handed batting combination in the T20 format. I will go with Yashasvi for sure,” More stated in his interview with Sports18.
More’s argument hinges on the strategic advantage of a left-right batting combination, which can often unsettle the bowling team’s rhythm. Jaiswal’s aggressive batting style, combined with Sharma’s experience and prowess, could potentially provide India with a solid start in the powerplay overs.
In addition to this, More also expressed his support for Tilak Varma and Rinku Singh in the playing XI. Both players have had a commendable year, with Varma scoring 310 runs in 15 matches. More praised their performances and earmarked them as the future of Indian cricket.
“Rinku and Tilak both because Tilak Varma is a good player. He is a 360-degree player and Tilak Varma bats the same way that Rinku does. I believe we need to think a little about the future and take both Tilak and Rinku along,” More added, highlighting the importance of nurturing young talent for the long-term success of the team.
Furthermore, the inclusion of seasoned players like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli is expected to bolster India’s batting lineup. However, the team will be missing key players such as Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya due to their absence from the series. Additionally, Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah have been given a break in preparation for the upcoming five-match Test series against England, starting January 25.
As the series against Afghanistan approaches, the Indian team’s strategy and player selection, particularly in the context of More’s suggestions, will be keenly watched by cricket enthusiasts and analysts alike. The dynamic duo of Sharma and Jaiswal, if selected, could set the tone for India’s approach in the T20I format moving forward. Get free cricket betting tips from Nextbet Sports.