India is gearing up to confront Australia in the first ODI of a three-match series. This match will take place in Perth on October 19. The game marks a new chapter for the Indian cricket team, now under the captaincy of Shubman Gill. As senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli return to the squad, the team aims to strike a balance between experience and youth. This approach is crucial as India prepares for future white-ball tournaments.
Irfan Pathan’s Preferred India XI for the Opening ODI
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has proposed his ideal lineup for the series opener against Australia. He has chosen Shubman Gill to lead the team and partner with Rohit Sharma at the top of the order.
- Openers: Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill (C)
- Middle Order: Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (VC), KL Rahul (WK)
- All-rounders: Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel
- Bowlers: Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj
Pathan specifically endorsed the inclusion of 23-year-old Harshit Rana, highlighting his dual capabilities as a bowler and a lower-order batsman. Pathan believes that Rana should be positioned at number eight to maximize his potential. He stated, “I think Harshit will play. He is the only bowler in this unit who can also bat.”
Leadership Dynamics Under Shubman Gill
Pathan also discussed the challenges that come with Gill’s new role as captain. He emphasized the importance of respect between senior and junior players. “India will be under a new leader. A big challenge for Gill will be how much respect he moves forward with Rohit Sharma,” he noted. Pathan underscored that managing relationships both on and off the field will be critical during Gill’s early captaincy.
As the series approaches, all eyes will be on how India balances its experienced players with emerging talent under Shubman Gill’s guidance.
