Ganguly, Sehwag share their opinions on Rohit's Test position
What's the story
The Indian cricket team is set to take on West Indies in the first Test of the two-match series later tonight. One major headache for the management is the perfect team combination. India need to decide on a number of options and one key position is that of Rohit Sharma. Former cricketers Sourav Ganguly and Virender Sehwag have opened up on the same.
Scenarios
The two possible scenarios for Team India
It remains to be seen whether India go in with a 6-5 or a 7-4 combination. If skipper Virat Kohli selects five bowlers, then the management needs to decide between Rohit and Ajinkya Rahane. Rahane has been woeful with his form. If Team India opts for four bowlers then two spots could be decided between Rohit, Rahane and Hanuma Vihari.
Selection
Virat Kohli has a good selection headache
Virat Kohli has already suggested that the team will opt for regular openers KL Rahul and Mayank Agarwal. Therefore, based on combinations, it remains to be seen how the middle order shapes up. "Obviously, it's always positive, from a team perspective, that there is more than one option for the same spot. Both of them (Rohit and Vihari) have done really well," said Kohli.
Ganguly's opinion
Ganguly wants Rohit to open the innings
However, former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly has batted for Rohit and wants the player to rather open the innings. He also wants Rahane in the middle order. "My suggestion would be to let Rohit carry on his good form from the World Cup and settle in the opener's slot while Rahane continues his work of lending stability," said Dada to The Times of India.
Sehwag's opinion
Sehwag wants Rohit to bat at number six
Meanwhile, former Indian opener Virender Sehwag prefers Rohit to bat at number six. "Who played at no. 6 in the last series? If you ask me, I will pick Rohit because he has the ability to score big hits. If there comes a stage where you are closing in on declaration, he can score those quick runs," he said in an interview.
Our take
What should be India's strategy in the first Test?
India should opt for a 6-5 strategy and be more attacking. Both spin all-rounders R Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are good batsmen. It means India can bat till number eight. Also, India should drop struggling Rahane and go for Rohit at number five. Rohit had a strong outing in the warm-up game and can accelerate when needed. He is of real quality.
Information
Venue, timing and TV listing
The match is set to be held at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in North South, Antigua. The match will be telecast live on the Sony Ten Network. It's scheduled for a 7:00 PM IST start.