KL Rahul vs Abhimanyu Easwaran: Rohit Sharma replacement in BGT 2024-25?

The highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) is set to commence on November 22nd, and cricket fans are eagerly looking forward to this thrilling contest between India and Australia. However, a significant concern has emerged regarding India’s lineup, as the team’s captain, Rohit Sharma, is expected to miss the initial matches of the tournament. This situation has led to much speculation about who will open for India in Rohit’s absence. So let’s take a look at Rohit Sharma replacement in BGT 2024-25.

In the absence of Rohit Sharma, the Indian cricket team will need a strong opening batter to fill his shoes effectively as the role of the opening batter is crucial, especially when it comes to setting the tone for innings aimed at pursuing large targets.  Recognizing this need, the Indian cricket team management has identified two potential replacements for Rohit Sharma should he be unable to participate in the initial matches of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

During a recent press conference held in Mumbai, the head coach of the Indian cricket team, Gautam Gambhir, emphasized the importance of having strong options at the top of the batting order. He revealed that the team is considering Abhimanyu Easwaran, and KL Rahul as potential candidates to step in if Rohit is absent.

Obviously, there is [Abhimanyu] Easwaran and there is KL [Rahul] there. So we will take a call closer to the first Test match if Rohit is not available,” Gambhir said during the press conference in Mumbai. Quote by ESPNcricinfo.

India’s Opening Options for BGT 2024-25

KL Rahul

KL Rahul is currently struggling with his performance. Recently, he scored only 82 runs in 4 innings during the New Zealand series, and his overall Test numbers have not been strong.

Who is Abhimanyu Easwaran?

Abhimanyu is an Indian cricketer who plays for the Bengal cricket team. This right-handed batsman was born on September 6, 1995, in Dehradun. He joined the Bengal cricket team in 2013, where he has been showcasing his skills. He also played for India B in the Duleep Trophy, where he scored two consecutive centuries. Given his impressive performance, he was selected for the Indian team for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT).

Abhimanyu Easwaran has shown good skills in domestic cricket, but he also did not perform well in the India A series against Australia, scoring just 36 runs in 4 innings.

Both KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran have been named as backup openers by head coach Gautam Gambhir, but they are both out of form. Given his experience in international matches and recent performances, KL Rahul may be the better choice as an opener if Rohit Sharma is unavailable.

If the management decides not to select either KL Rahul or Abhimanyu Easwaran, they can consider Shubman Gill as an option for opening. As Shubman Gill is in great form and could move up from his regular position at No. 3 to open the batting.

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