Rohit Sharma to Bat at No. 5 in Adelaide Test? Former Pacer Suggests KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal will continue as openers

India vs Australia: As India prepares for the second Pink Ball Test of the ongoing series against Australia in Adelaide, a major point of discussion is the batting order, especially the opening pair with skipper Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill coming in.

KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal's stellar 201-run partnership in the first Test has sparked debate on whether this successful combination should remain intact, or if the returning Rohit Sharma should replace one of them at the top of the order. The duo's exceptional performance, with Rahul scoring 77 and Jaiswal making a brilliant 161, has made a strong case for their continuation as openers.

However, with Rohit Sharma's return after paternity leave and Shubman Gill's recovery from injury, the balance of the opening partnership could shift. Rohit and Shubman were initially expected to open together for this critical series, which holds significant implications for India's chances of reaching the World Test Championship final. But given the remarkable form of Rahul and Jaiswal, former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has suggested that the current opening pair should remain unchanged.

Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan emphasised, "It will not be right to change that opening pair as they performed so well in Perth. Rohit Sharma should come in for Devdutt Paddikal and bat at No. 5, as he is flexible with his batting position in the past. Shubman Gill should replace Dhruv Jurel. Both Rohit and Shubman will strengthen the Indian middle order."

The Adelaide Test is set to be played under the lights with the Pink Ball, adding another layer of challenge. Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara highlighted the difficulties of batting in these conditions, stating, "It's a challenge to bat under the lights with the pink ball as the ball comes faster after pitching in, and the lacquer on the ball stays longer, allowing extra movement." These conditions will test the adaptability of all Indian batters, including the opening pair.

The memory of India's disastrous collapse to 36 all out in the 2020-21 Adelaide Pink Ball Test remains fresh, making this a crucial encounter for India. The management will have to weigh the balance between stability and flexibility, ensuring that the right players are placed in optimal positions to succeed in this challenging format. Whether the opening pair stays as is or changes, India will be looking to make the most of their opportunities in this high-stakes match.