Irfan Pathan backs KL Rahul-Yashasvi Jaiswal pair for Adelaide Test as India eyes series lead

Former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan has voiced his support for KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal to open the batting in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, set to begin in Adelaide. Speaking on Star Sports, Pathan emphasized the importance of maintaining the successful opening combination that excelled in the first Test in Perth.

Pathan’s comments align with India skipper Rohit Sharma’s confirmation earlier today that Rahul will open the innings in Adelaide, with Rohit himself moving to the middle order. “He’ll be opening the batting; I’ll bat somewhere in the middle,” Rohit said during a pre-match press conference.

Rahul earned this opportunity after his impressive knock of 77 runs off 176 balls in Perth, where he and Jaiswal forged a record-breaking 201-run opening stand. Pathan highlighted the significance of this partnership and praised Rohit’s adaptability to different batting positions.

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“Rohit Sharma has batted in various positions throughout his career, so adjusting won’t be an issue for him,” Pathan noted. “Since the opening pair of KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal delivered so well in Perth, there’s no reason to disrupt it. Rohit and Shubman Gill can strengthen the middle order, ensuring balance in the batting lineup.”

India enters the pink-ball Test in Adelaide with a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, following a dominant 295-run victory in the series opener. The team aims to capitalize on its momentum, while Australia will look to bounce back after making adjustments to their lineup, including the inclusion of pacer Scott Boland.