Former cricketer-turned-commentator Sanjay Manjrekar has voiced his support for KL Rahul to continue opening for India in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, despite the return of skipper Rohit Sharma. Manjrekar emphasized that the decision should be guided by “common sense” and “current reality” rather than seniority.

Rahul, along with Yashasvi Jaiswal, delivered a record-breaking performance in Perth, putting up the first-ever 200-plus opening partnership on Australian soil in Test cricket. Facing Australia’s formidable pace trio of Josh Hazlewood, Pat Cummins, and Mitchell Starc, the duo combined defensive solidity with aggressive intent to set the tone for India’s victory.

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Jaiswal’s scintillating 161 was the highlight of the innings, but Rahul’s ability to absorb pressure and allow his partner to flourish was equally pivotal. Their partnership has sparked debates about India’s playing XI for the upcoming day-night Test in Adelaide, especially with Rohit Sharma’s return to the squad.

Rohit, who batted in the middle order during warm-up matches, has added intrigue to the team’s potential lineup. However, Manjrekar believes that sticking with Rahul at the top is a logical move.

“It makes a lot of sense. Imagine the first-ever 200-plus partnership for the opening wicket in Australia, and we saw the result. I doubt this team management, which is focused on form and cricketing logic, will revert to prioritizing seniority,” Manjrekar told ESPNcricinfo.

He added, “They will go by common sense and current reality. The right move is to capitalize on the gains from the second innings.”

Also See: India vs Australia Series Schedule

As the second Test approaches on Friday, speculation about India’s lineup is expected to be settled soon. India enters the match in excellent form, having secured a dominant victory in the series opener and a convincing win against the Prime Minister’s XI in a two-day warm-up game in Canberra.

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