The Indian cricket team will commence their Asia Cup journey against Pakistan on September 2nd in Kandy.
India's middle-order struggles seem to have no end. In the lead-up to the 2019 ODI World Cup, the Indian team, led by Virat Kohli, tested out several batsmen for the crucial No. 4 position. Although Ambati Rayudu appeared to be the frontrunner, Vijay Shankar was ultimately chosen over him.
However, during the World Cup, India faced difficulties in solidifying the No. 4 spot. To make matters worse, injuries to Shankar and Shikhar Dhawan compounded their woes, resulting in the Men in Blue's exit in the semi-finals of the prestigious tournament. Following the 50-over ICC event, India seemed to have almost settled on Shreyas Iyer for the No. 4 position, while KL Rahul's performance at No. 5 boosted his reputation. Unfortunately, the injuries sustained by both players failed to resolve the problems faced by Rohit Sharma-led India.
Ahead of the Asia Cup, the BCCI selectors, led by Ajit Agarkar, have announced a formidable 17-man India squad for the continental tournament, which includes both Rahul and Iyer. Both batsmen have been deemed fit, although Rahul is carrying a minor injury. This opportunity will provide them with valuable game time as India prepares for the Asia Cup, followed by the ODI World Cup on home soil.
Prior to the commencement of the Asia Cup on August 30, India's veteran spinner, R Ashwin, has praised Rahul's performance and believes he has expertly filled the No. 5 slot since the retirements of Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni. During their playing days, Yuvraj and Dhoni formed a formidable batting partnership, often occupying the No. 4 and 5 positions respectively, and successfully rescued India from numerous crises.
On his YouTube channel, Ashwin said, "Ever since Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni retired, India were desperately looking for a replacement. Rahul has filled that slot with expertise. He is a definite lock at No. 5 and is also our wicketkeeper-batsman."
According to Ashwin, Iyer and Rahul will occupy the No. 4 and 5 positions, respectively, if they are fit, for the upcoming two major events, namely the Asia Cup and ODI World Cup. Both players have demonstrated their value in the middle order, boasting impressive statistics since the 2019 ODI World Cup. However, they are keen to gain match practice and accumulate runs in the coming month before the commencement of the 50-over World Cup.
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