ICC World Cup 2019: Exploring India's backup options for each department

#3 Wicketkeeper - Dinesh Karthik and Rishabh Pant

England Lions v India A - Tri-Series International ECB XI v India A - Tour Match

The Indian middle order is currently packed with wicketkeepers. However, in all probability, MS Dhoni is going to don the gloves, given his insane speed and ability to read the game behind the stumps.

Given the fitness levels of MSD, it seems highly unlikely for him to miss any game. But if the need arises, Karthik and Rishabh Pant may well be good prospects to stand in for him.

While Karthik assumed the keeper's duties in a couple of games against NZ, Pant donned the gloves against Australia in the shortest format in the absence of Dhoni.

With both Karthik and Pant having the experience of keeping against the swing in England, they form ideal backups for MS Dhoni.

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#4 All-rounder - Vijay Shankar

ECB XI v India A - Tour Match

Given the pace-friendly nature of English pitches, it would be imperative for India to have a seam all-rounder in their ranks. Hardik Pandya is expected to assume the reins, given his athleticism and hard-hitting abilities towards the end. He has also exhibited good form with the ball post his return.

The player who forms an ideal backup for Pandya is Vijay Shankar. The 28-year-old has been highly succcessful in the domestic setup, and has shown decent signs of form in the few ODIs he has played.

Shankar played an important knock in his first ever ODI innings against New Zealand, helping India score a respectable score. Although he may not be as experienced as Pandya, Shankar is India's best bid in the absence of the former.