Three players who can open the batting with Rohit Sharma if KL Rahul isn't fit for the T20I series against the West Indies

India's vice-captain KL Rahul has made his comeback to the national team after getting injured prior to the T20I series against South Africa. He sustained a groin injury an evening ahead of the first T20I against the Proteas in June this year. The right-hander was expected to get fit ahead of the England tour. However, leading up to the tour, he was suggested to get operated in Germany.

Advertisment

This is the reason, the Bangalore player missed the UK tour. When the team for the tour of the West Indies was announced, the 30-year-old was included in the team. However, he has been subjected to fitness. There could be a possibility that he might not play in the series. After all, an injury such as a groin is not something from which a person can recover.

In this listicle, we will discuss three players who can open the innings with skipper Rohit Sharma if Rahul misses out.

Three players who can open the innings

Advertisment

Ishan Kishan (Image Credit : Twitter)

1. Ishan Kishan

The former India U19 captain has opened the batting in either Rahul or Rohit's absence. In the last few months, he has opened the batting for the team. Talking about his numbers as an opener, the left-hander has got 508 runs in 16 games at a strike rate of more than 150.

Advertisment

As he is part of the squad, he might be the first choice player to open the batting with Sharma. Also, not to forget his big-hitting ability which might be useful for the team in the series. 

Rishabh Pant: (Image Source: Twitter)

2. Rishabh Pant

The wicketkeeper has opened on a few occasions in T20Is. Recently, in the T20I series against England, he opened the innings in one of the games. With the kind of ability he has, the team management has looked to utilize his ability in the powerplay.

If KL doesn't get for the series, the team management such as head coach Rahul Dravid and skipper Sharma might look to open with him during the five-match series. 

Deepak Hooda (Image Credit : Twitter)

3. Deepak Hooda

The Baroda player recently hit a hundred against Ireland. This was his maiden international century and he was batting at number three. Even in the Indian T20 League 2022, he started as number five batter but was promoted to number three. After his promotion, he showed that he can take responsibility.

In the upcoming series, he might open the innings considering the kind of form he is in. It will be interesting to see if these players get the opportunity to open or if KL Rahul gets fit.