India’s opening order batsman KL Rahul is a strong contender to open the visiting team’s innings in the upcoming four-match Test series against Australia next week. However, India’s batting coach Sanjay Bangar feels KL Rahul is “finding new ways to get himself out”.
Ahead of four-match Test series in Australia, as many as five different Indian batsmen have scored fifties against Australia XI in a practice match. Speaking to media after the day’s play, Bangar said Rahul was no longer an inexperienced player and he ought to shoulder more responsibility.
“He (Rahul) has been looking in good shape, including today. It is just that he is finding new ways to get out. Even today, the ball was quite afar when he played it away from his body and lost his wicket. But what we are reading he is playing the ball well and he is one hit away (from form),” Bangar said.
“We know his ability and if he converts that to performances then it is important for the team. He is not a young player anymore and he is on his second tour here. He has played 30 Tests and he has a responsibility. We expect him to play with that responsibility and play his role for the team,” Bangar added.
Virat Kohli-led Team India are favourites to win the upcoming four-match Test series against Australia starting 4 December primarily due to the absence of former Aussie skipper Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner.
Speaking about India’s batting line-up in the opening Test, Bangar said, “I would say there are still some spots to be taken. We will keep a close eye on how the second innings goes and it gives some other batsmen a hit especially Murali Vijay and middle order batsmen, and see how they go. There are certain spots to be taken still. We are looking at the opening slot as well as the number six slot. Those are the positions we are still looking at, we have not decided yet.”