Former India selector Sarandeep Singh suggests a change in India’s batting order for the upcoming Test against England, recommending Shubman Gill to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Gill, who initially started his Test career as an opener, shifted to the number 3 spot during the West Indies series last year, replacing Cheteshwar Pujara.

However, his performance at this position has been less than stellar, failing to score a fifty in nine innings with just 189 runs at an average of 23.62. Sarandeep Singh proposes a reversal, suggesting that Rohit Sharma, known for his proficiency against spin bowling, should drop down to number 3, making way for Gill at the top.

The former India off-spinner emphasizes that Gill is more suited to an opening role, and the team should utilize Rohit’s skills against spin further down the order. “Gill is not a number three player. He should open. Rohit is one of the best players of spin and can drop down to accommodate Gill at the top,” expresses Sarandeep Singh.

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Former India opener Wasim Jaffer echoes similar sentiments, advocating for Gill and Jaiswal to open, with Rohit batting at number 3. Jaffer believes that waiting for his turn isn’t helping Shubman Gill, and opening the innings could be a positive move for him. He emphasizes Rohit’s proficiency against spin, suggesting that batting at number 3 should not be a concern for the experienced opener.

Gill and Jaiswal should open and Rohit should bat at no.3 in 2nd test in my opinion. Waiting to bat for his turn isn’t helping Shubman, it’s better he opens the inn. Rohit plays spin really well, so batting at no.3 should not worry him too much. #INDvENG

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) January 29, 2024