The Indian Test team might be winning matches, but the team has been ravaged by injuries. After the injury to opener KL Rahul, reports have emerged that Murali Vijay too is suffering from back spasms. Thus, now the management is faced with a headache to call a reserve opener for the fourth Test match which is to be held in Mumbai.
If the situation remains as it is, Gautam Gambhir is set for another recall. The veteran was part of the squad for the two Test matches but was not retained for the remainder of the series. Thus now when the window is open to rope in another opener, his name fits the bill perfectly.
There could be a left-field decision to include young sensation Rishabh Pant in the squad and give him the number 6 spot. Cheteshwar Pujara could open the innings, and Karun Nair could walk in at number 3. Pant has been in awesome form this year in the Ranji Trophy where he has scored 903 runs at an astounding average of 90.3 and he could be drafted in as an inspired piece of selection.
Also read: Why India had no back-up opener in the squad for the third Test at Mohali
Out of favour opener, Shikhar Dhawan did not impress on his return as an opener for Delhi. His scores read 38, 49 and 6 respectively in the 3 innings and thus the selectors would not be too enthused with these performances. Gambhir, on the other hand, did score a quick 50 against New Zealand but did not look at ease against the extra pace of the England bowlers.
Also, regular wicket-keeper Wriddhiman Saha has not yet attained full fitness and this will be another major worry for the Kohli-Kumble think-tank. Parthiv Patel impressed one and all with his return in Mohali and he is confirmed of another go, most probably at the top of the order.
Whatever be the scenario the management is facing a headache over team combinations, but they have the luxury of choosing between a number of options. Also, the fact that they are leading the series will give them solace and encourage them to experiment with different combinations.
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