As the cricketing world gears up for the much-anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Indian team faces the challenge of replacing two of its stalwarts, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane. Former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik has weighed in on this crucial decision, naming Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan as the ideal candidates to fill these significant roles.
Shubman Gill has already shown glimpses of his potential on the international stage. Making his debut during the 2020-21 series in Australia, Gill impressed with his technique and composure. He scored 259 runs in six innings, including a crucial 91 on the final day of the historic Gabba Test, which India won to clinch the series. Since then, Gill has continued to develop, and his performances against England earlier this year have further solidified his place in the team.
Sarfaraz Khan, though relatively new to the international scene, has made a strong case for himself with consistent performances in domestic cricket and his recent outings against England. In his three Test matches, Sarfaraz has scored 200 runs at an average of 50, including three half-centuries. His ability to adapt to different conditions and his aggressive style of play make him a promising replacement for Rahane.
🗣️ Dinesh Karthik believes Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan can replace Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane in India's squad for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
via Cricbuzz #ShubmanGill | #SarfarazKhan pic.twitter.com/pJkGgUjtiA
— OneCricket (@OneCricketApp) September 2, 2024
Dinesh Karthik’s Confidence
Dinesh Karthik expressed his confidence in Gill and Sarfaraz’s abilities to step up and fill the void left by Pujara and Rahane. “Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan. Both of those batters have done really well against England in the home series that recently happened at the start of the year. I have a feeling both of them will definitely be on that flight to Australia and will be trying to do their best. We will know if they’re able to replace both Ajinkya and Pujji (Pujara). Big shoes to fill, but they have the quality and calibre in them,” Karthik said.
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