VVS Laxman has opened up about Indian Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane’s current position in the playing XI. In the 4th Test match between England and India, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja was put ahead of Ajinkya Rahane in the batting order at Kennington Oval in London. The Indian management’s decision to play Jadeja at No. 5 in both innings of the match drew varied reviews from cricket experts.
Meanwhile, VVS Laxman stated that if India loses a wicket on Day 4 of the Oval Test, Rahane should be the next player to step out to bat. He also believes that if India continues to demote him, he will lose faith in the country. VVS Laxman, speaking to ESPNCricinfo, stated:
“I think Ajinkya Rahane will bat at No.6 and then Rishabh Pant. Rahane is an experienced batsman and if you keep on demoting him, then it will affect his confidence. You want your experienced batsman to gain confidence.”
Former Indian cricketer VVS Laxman believes the Oval pitch helps batsmen a lot, and he expects Indian captain Virat Kohli to make a big century for India, similar to Rohit Sharma. He went on to say:
“Virat Kohli was looking good in the second innings at Headingley as well as the first innings here. According to me, you can see a big score from Virat on Day 4. Virat Kohli the captain will know that if a target of 300-350 is given to England then India can win the game. So he will bat with that determination and he is definitely looking in rhythm and he won’t get a better opportunity. Rohit Sharma has scored a century and Indian fans will want that even Virat Kohli will get a big score. I am expecting a big score from Virat Kohli,” VVS Laxman concluded.
With Indian captain Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja at the crease on Day 3 of the 4th Test, India was in a strong position and had a healthy lead of 171 runs.
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