Wasim Jaffer names Shubman Gill's replacement for third T20I against Sri Lanka

Ruturaj Gaikwad [Source: Twitter]

Promising Indian batter Shubman Gill made his much-awaited T20I debut in the series opener against Sri Lanka in Mumbai. However, contrary to expectations, the Punjab batter has recorded consecutive failures, managing only 12 runs across two outings. 

As the series is at stake, India might consider dropping out-of-form Gill from their playing XI for the third T20I on Saturday. 

Meanwhile, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer believes the hosts should replace Gill with Ruturaj Gaikwad in the series decider. 

Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Jaffer reckoned that Gaikwad was outstanding in the recently held Vijay Hazare Trophy and should get a game in the series. 

Here's what Jaffer stated

"I think Ruturaj Gaikwad should get a chance. He has scored a lot of runs (in domestic cricket). He was outstanding in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Shubman Gill, on the other hand, hasn't been in great touch in the previous two matches. He has been disappointing. I will be tempted to play Ruturaj Gaikwad. He has been warming the benches for quite some time now."

However, Gaikwad is yet to make a mark in the shortest format, as he has managed only 135 runs at a dismal average of 16.9 in eight T20I innings. So, it will be interesting to see whether he repays the faith if he gets a game on Saturday. 

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