Former Indian selector Saba Karim reckons that stand-in skipper, KL Rahul should continue batting at no.4 while Shubman Gill can fulfill the role of a backup opener till the ICC World Cup 2023. Karim labeled Shubman Gill as a three-dimensional cricketer who can play in all three formats.

Shubman Gill was the highest run-getter for India with 205 runs in the 3 ODIs against the West Indies, while Shikhar Dhawan finished second with 168 runs. Gill continued his rich vein of form in the first ODI against Zimbabwe, helping India to a 10-wicket win in the first of a 3-match series on Thursday, August 18.

Gill played a knock of 82 while his opening partner Dhawan scored 81 as the duo added 192 runs for the opening wicket – the highest opening partnership for India against Zimbabwe in Zimbabwe in ODIs.

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Talking about the same during a chat with India News, Saba Karim said, “KL Rahul’s place at this time is No.4. This is the reason Shikhar Dhawan and Shubman Gill opened the batting. India’s selectors and team management are looking for a backup opener for the 2023 World Cup. Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan will serve as front-line openers, while Gill can fulfill the role of a backup opener.”

He further explained, “It is very difficult to play across three formats with the right technique, but Gill possesses all those elements. His temperament is good. He had to go through tough challenges where he scored runs. This is a good phase for Shubman and I think the team management has marked him as a player who can play all three formats, which is a big thing.”

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The second ODI of the three-match series between India and Zimbabwe is scheduled to be taking place on Saturday, August 20 at the same venue in Harare.