Debate over Rahul’s batting position after India’s New Zealand ODI

Sport · First reported 9 Nov, 09:12 · Updated 09:58

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After Axar Patel batted ahead of KL Rahul in India’s second ODI against New Zealand, former India selector Kris Srikkanth questioned the decision, while Sunil Gavaskar defended it as a tactical option.

India were 39/3 when Axar came in and scored seven runs from 17 balls; Rahul batted after him and appeared more comfortable, according to the report.
Srikkanth argued Rahul’s experience and record at No. 3 and No. 4 made sending him in at No. 6 unfair.
Gavaskar backed sending a left-handed batter ahead of right-handers to disrupt bowlers’ lines, saying the tactic can work or fail.

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Key facts

Match: India’s second ODI against New Zealand, in Wellington.
Score when Axar entered: India were 39/3.
Axar’s innings: Seven runs from 17 balls.
Srikkanth’s position: He questioned sending Rahul in at No. 6 after Axar.
Gavaskar’s position: He defended the left-hander-first tactic as an experiment that may or may not work.