'Fight Between KL Rahul & Shreyas Iyer': Gavaskar Weighs in on World Cup Selection
KL Rahul will be returning from a long term injury layoff (x.com)
Former Indian cricketer, Sunil Gavaskar has batted for the inclusion of both Ishan Kishan and KL Rahul in the playing XI. With both wicketkeepers named in India’s 15-man World Cup 2023 squad, it creates an intriguing selection dilemma for India.
Sunil Gavaskar advocates for Ishan Kishan as wicketkeeper
Earlier this year, Kishan made a lasting impression during the West Indies tour, which paved his way to the Asia Cup 2023. His splendid performance against Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2023 Group A clash, where he scored an 81-ball 82, further bolstered his case for the World Cup.
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On the other hand, KL Rahul is set to return during the Super Fours of the Asia Cup 2023 after recovering from a groin injury. Given that Shreyas Iyer recently resumed his position at No.4 against Pakistan post a lengthy injury hiatus, it remains to be seen how India will adjust the batting order to accommodate Rahul.
While speaking to India Today, Gavaskar hinted at a potential face-off between Rahul and Iyer in the Super Fours. Given Kishan's outstanding form, the Indian veteran believes it might be prudent for Kishan to take over the wicketkeeping duties.
Acccording to him, this approach could ease the physical strain on Rahul, who's freshly recovered from his injury, especially when considering the constant up-and-down movement associated with wicketkeeping. Gavaskar reckoned that the debate hence might centre around the No. 4 and No. 5 positions for Rahul and Iyer.
"It could be a fight between KL Rahul & Shreyas Iyer in the Super Fours in the Asia Cup. With the kind of form that Ishan Kishan showcased against Pakistan... if both Rahul and Ishan play, it might be a good idea to let Ishan keep wickets because if Rahul has undergone recovery from an injury, then getting up and down might be a bit of an issue. It makes sense to have Ishan to keep wickets. It could actually be a fight between Shreyas and KL Rahul for the No. 4 and No. 5 positions," said Gavaskar.
Gavaskar further noted that due to Rahul's past successful performances, he is given certain flexibility in selection matters. He also pointed out that India is going to play 3 ODIs against Australia in the third week of September and the option for a World Cup replacement remains viable, subject to the ICC's technical committee's approval.
"He is a proven performer with the bat and when you have been a proven performer, you get a bit of leeway. That's exactly what has happened in this instance. It can be a bit of a worry that he hasn't played any cricket. Now, you are flying him to Sri Lanka, he will be able to play a few matches and then you see his fitness. You have 3 ODIs against Australia in the 3rd week of September. You can still have a replacement in the World Cup,” concluded the erstwhile cricketer.
 "Jatin")
