File image of Mohammad Kaif©AFP
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif gave his thoughts on the ongoing competition between KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan as the Men in Blue continue their preparations for next month’s ODI World Cup. Kishan has enjoyed good form in the blue jersey and will now have to compete with KL Rahul, who recently returned from injury. Apart from Hardik Pandya, India’s middle order is still a bit of a mystery. The likes of Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan provide the team with a wide range of options and skills.
But the scenario of these four players playing together in the playing XI is highly unlikely. Addressing the competition going on for a spot, Kaif said, “Rahul Dravid will know that both (Rahul and Iyer) are the backbone of the Indian middle class and they will need game time. Ishan played very well, and that’s good. because there is healthy competition in the team,” Kaif told Star Sports.
“However, if an in-form player drops out, it will not be a problem because Dravid wants to see Rahul playing at No. 5. He has good numbers at No. 5 and you want him and Iyer to get game time.” and have that form when they play the first World Cup match against Australia,” Kaif added.
Kaif further warned against putting extra strain on players who have recently returned from injuries as it could re-aggravate their injuries.
“India saw what happened with Jasprit Bumrah where he was cleared to play by the NCA but then got injured again. So they will have to be careful with Iyer and Rahul and check how much to play and when to take .” breaks. You don’t want to stress them too much before the match starts. That’s why Rahul Dravid and the trainers are there,” he added.
All eyes will be on India head coach Rahul Dravid’s decision to pick the Playing XI for the exciting match against Pakistan in the Asia Cup Super Four on Sunday.
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