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.