The upcoming Test series against England, starting June 20th, presents a challenge for India, especially with the retirements of key players. Robin Uthappa, a former India opener, has proposed his ideal playing XI, emphasizing a strong top order and strategic choices throughout the batting lineup.
Uthappa wants KL Rahul to open the batting alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. He wants Sai Sudharsan, with his technical prowess, to bat at No. 3, followed by Shubman Gill and Karun Nair. Rishabh Pant is slotted at No. 6, with Nitish Kumar Reddy adding a fast-bowling all-rounder option at No. 7, and Ravindra Jadeja at No. 8. The bowling attack would consist of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Prasidh Krishna.
Uthappa emphasized the importance of a strong start and depth in the batting order. “At No. 3, I would love to see someone like Sai Sudharsan because of how technically right he is, and the potential he possesses as what we feel and believe he can do and achieve in Test cricket,” Uthappa stated.