Team India, led by Rohit Sharma, is poised to break their ICC trophy drought as they face Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) finals commencing on June 7. Unfortunately for their rivals, Australia, pacer Josh Hazlewood’s absence due to injury serves as a setback. In his place, Michael Neser has been called up as a replacement. On the other hand, the Indian team has been relatively injury-free leading up to the final.

After their training in Arundel, the team has now shifted their focus to The Oval, the venue for the highly anticipated final. However, a heated debate ensues regarding the choice of wicketkeeper, with Ishan Kishan and KS Bharat being the two contenders. Both players are relatively inexperienced in India’s red-ball cricket, complicating the decision-making process.

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While Bharat has made four appearances, Ishan, who is regarded as the superior batsman, is yet to make his debut in the longer format. Offering his perspective, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh believes that India should give Ishan his debut, describing him as a “direct replacement for Rishabh Pant.” Harbhajan Singh expressed this opinion in a video shared on his YouTube channel.

“I believe this will strengthen the batting lineup as Ishan Kishan can handle the new ball better than Bharat. He is also an opener and is in good form. So, if the second new ball is introduced after 80 overs and Ishan comes in to bat, he can play as an opener.

“Rishabh Pant is an explosive batsman, and Ishan possesses similar qualities. Although Bharat is an excellent wicketkeeper, I have less confidence in his batting,” remarked Harbhajan Singh.

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However, Harbhajan’s statement contradicts his earlier endorsement of Bharat’s inclusion in the playing XI. During a conversation on Star Sports, he stated, “No, I don’t think so. KS Bharat has been playing for India now. If it were Wriddhiman Saha, then I would say yes, play him. He has more experience, and he’s a better keeper. If KL Rahul was fit, I would’ve played him over KS Bharat as well.”