Shane Warne backs Rishabh Pant to open with Rohit Sharma in ODIs

Spin legend Shane Warne backed the talented youngster, Rishabh Pant, to open alongside Rohit Sharma

After mauling the Aussies in their own backyard, the men in blue will now be hosting them for 2 T20Is and 5 ODIs later this month. While the Indian team management is sorting out 15 players to feature in the upcoming World Cup 2019, legendary Australian spinner Shane Warne has suggested a unique opening pair.

Warne feels the young Rishabh Pant can play as a specialist batsman in the Indian ODI team and even backed the talented youngster to open alongside Rohit Sharma.  

“There has been talking if Rishabh Pant can play in the side. I think Dhoni and Pant both can play. I can't see why Rishabh Pant can't play as a batsman, he is outstanding. Maybe even open the batting with Rohit Sharma,” Warne said during an interview.

“I know Shikhar Dhawan does a great job but Rishabh Pant opening the batting with Rohit Sharma could be pretty cool too for India. Go with some of these X-factor type things and tactical battles, where you surprise the opposition,” said the Australian legend.

Warne wants India to experiment with their top-order in the upcoming home series against Australia, starting February 24 with the first T20.

“It could be worth throwing Rishabh Pant at the top of the order for a couple of games and see how he goes. Maybe against Australia now and experiment and see how he goes for the World Cup.

“Dhawan may have a role to play somewhere else. But I am really looking forward to seeing what India have because they have a lot of players who can do a lot of roles,” said the 49-year-old.