Border Gavaskar Trophy: Who will take the backseat after Rohit Sharma's return?

The Indian team have began the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in emphatic style, delivering a commanding performance against Australia in the first Test hosted in Perth. Demonstrating their dominance throughout, India secured a massive 295-run victory to take an early lead in the series, sending a strong message to their rivals. The match was marked by standout performances that left fans in awe. Yashasvi Jaiswal’s stunning 161-run innings showcased the young opener’s class and temperament, while Virat Kohli added another milestone to his illustrious career with his 81st international century, delighting cricket enthusiasts worldwide. These exceptional displays underscored India's batting depth and resilience on foreign soil.

However, one of the most talked-about performances was KL Rahul's crucial knock. Returning to the side under immense scrutiny, Rahul played a significant role, answering critics with a composed and determined innings. His performance not only contributed to India's total but also demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion when needed. KL Rahul stepped up as an opener for India in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth, filling in for skipper Rohit Sharma, who missed the game due to personal reasons. Rahul made the most of this opportunity, scoring a gritty 77 off 176 deliveries in the second innings. His impressive knock on a challenging pitch highlighted his ability to anchor the innings and showed great temperament, contributing significantly to India’s commanding victory.

Rahul’s performance and Rohit's return has reignited the debate about his place in the Indian top order ahead of the India vs Australia 2nd Test. Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara praised Rahul’s efforts, stating that his resilience and adaptability make him a strong candidate for a spot at the top of the order, even when Rohit Sharma returns to the India playing XI. With his solid showing in Perth, Rahul has made a compelling case to be a mainstay in India's batting lineup for the remainder of the Australia vs India Test series.

"I think, for some reason if we can carry on with the same batting order, like KL and Yashasvi to open, Rohit could come in at three, and Shubman could come in at five. If Rohit wants to open, KL should bat at No. 3. Nothing later than that. I think he has to bat at the top of the order, because it suits his game really well. I hope we don't tinker around with that,” stated Cheteshwar Pujara during a recent interview.

Cheteshwar Pujara also weighed in on the potential lineup changes for India ahead of the second Test in the Border Gavaskar Trophy. With Shubman Gill potentially available, discussions have arisen regarding his role in the playing XI. Pujara suggested that Gill could slot into the middle order, specifically at number five, if the team management opts to include him. This proposal reflects the flexibility of India’s batting unit, with Gill capable of adjusting to different roles. Known for his attacking style and technical proficiency, the young batter has previously excelled as an opener but could adapt to the challenges of batting in the middle order. Such a move would allow India to maintain their balance while accommodating both KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma at the top of the order.

Gill's inclusion in the middle order could bolster the lineup, providing an extra layer of stability and firepower. With his recent performances in various formats showcasing his growing confidence and skill, Gill's adaptability might prove crucial in strengthening India’s batting depth for the remainder of the series. As the team strategizes for the second Test, Pujara’s insights underline the wealth of options at India’s disposal.

"Ideally No. 5. Because it allows him to come in at a time, even if we lose two wickets early, he is someone who can negotiate the new ball. But if he walks in after, say, 25 or 30 overs, he can play his shots. He can play his natural game. And in case we lose the first three wickets early, Gill walks in and saves Rishabh Pant for the old ball. [Pant] doesn't have to face the new ball. I wouldn't want him to walk in to bat when the ball is hard and new,” Pujara added.