Rohit Sharma May Replace KL Rahul As Test Opener, Hints MSK Prasad

Rahul scored 44, 38, 13 and 6 in two Tests against West Indies; he wasted opportunities to convert starts in the first Test in Antigua and didn't get starts in the next game in Jamaica

KL Rahul’s dipping form as a Test opener has now started pinching the Indian selection committee. His inconsistency is a cause of concern for the team and chief selector MSK Prasad has hinted that the board might consider Rohit Sharma to open the innings in the red-ball cricket as well. Rahul managed scores of 44, 38, 13 and 6 in two Tests against West Indies; he wasted opportunities to convert starts in the first Test in Antigua and didn't get starts in the next game in Jamaica. He hasn't managed a 50+ score since his 149 against England at the Oval some twelve innings back. “As selection committee, we haven't met after the conclusion of the West Indies tour. We will definitely take this (Rohit as an opener) point into consideration when we all meet and discuss it,” Prasad said in an interview. “KL (Rahul) is definitely a great talent. Of course, he is going through a bit tough time in Test cricket. We are definitely concerned about his form. He needs to spend more time on the wicket and regain his touch and form,” he added. Earlier, former captain Sourav Ganguly also backed Rohit for the Test opener's role and said that the star batsman deserved an opportunity in the longest format of the game. Rohit, who had a great run in the World Cup 2019, where he slammed five hundreds, was in the squad for the West Indies Tests but was not included in the playing XI. India will now face South Africa in three T20Is and as many Tests at home beginning Sunday.