Former India cricketer Murali Kartik suggested a change in India’s batting order before their Asia Cup 2025 match against Oman. India will play Oman in their final group stage match on Friday, September 19, in Abu Dhabi. Kartik added that Jitesh Sharma could be brought into the playing 11 while Sanju Samson could be pushed up the batting order as well.

“I would hope to give a break to all of them who are sitting out. You never know whom you might need. You have qualified. Somebody like an Arshdeep needs to get a gig, he’s been waiting in the wings for too long. Jitesh was possibly talked as the main wicketkeeper. Maybe push Sanju Samson up the order and allow Jitesh to play. Give a break to a few players. Arshdeep in for Bumrah, get Rinku in for Shivam Dube. It is a practice game. These are strong boys sitting out. Think of Rinku, Jitesh. Arshdeep has been your principle wicket-taker and he can’t get a game. Give everybody a break. Surya can rest. Shubman can captain,” he said on Cricbuzz.

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“I think Bumrah will be rested, Arshdeep will come in. Sanju will stay. You’re not going to give Surya and Shubman a rest. Tilak will want to bat. Maybe you can give Hardik a break. Rinku can come in. You want to see Rinku play. It is bittersweet that a player of his quality who has put in performances, can’t find a spot in the 11,” he again shared.

However, Murali Kartik said that Rinku Singh would have to start practising bowling to break into India’s T20I playing XI as well.

“I think Rinku will have to start practicing bowling. He’s a gun fielder, he’s brilliant. He is a great boundary blocker. I think he is one of the coolest guys under pressure – ‘icerink’. There are some players you who look at and your heart just goes out. You are their fan. I am a huge Rinku fan. You want him to do well and are always praying for him to succeed. Hopefully, he will get a game tomorrow,” Murali Kartik concluded.