ZIM vs IND 2022: Shubman Gill can fulfill the role of a backup opener for 2023 World Cup, says Saba Karim

Former Indian selector Saba Karim reckons Shubman Gill can fulfill the role of backup opener for the 2023 World Cup. Gill has done a fine job in the recent past whenever he has got the chance to open the innings with Shikhar Dhawan in the absence of Rohit Sharma.

The youngster scored an unbeaten knock of 82 runs off just 72 balls in the first ODI against Zimbabwe to help India chase down the target of 190 with ease. Gill and Shikhar Dhawan added an unbeaten alliance of 192 runs to take India to a 10-wicket victory.

Gill scored 205 runs in three ODI matches at an average of 102.50 against the Windies. The right-hander from Punjab top-scored with 98 runs in the third ODI and batted at the top of his game throughout the series. Gill had provided perfect starts to his team while opening the innings with captain Shikhar Dhawan.

However, it should be noted that Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma are India’s designated openers for the 50-overs format and they will be backed as they have all the experience under their belt.

Meanwhile, KL Rahul was making a comeback to the national team in the first ODI against Zimbabwe and it was expected that he might open the innings with Shikhar Dhawan. However, Karim feels KL Rahul’s place is at No.4 at this time.

“KL Rahul’s place at this time is No.4. This is the reason Shikhar Dhawan and Shubman Gill opened the batting. India’s selectors and team management are looking for a backup opener for the 2023 World Cup,” Karim said while speaking to India News.

“Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan will serve as front-line openers, while Gill can fulfill the role of a backup opener. It is very difficult to play across three formats with the right technique, but Gill possesses all those elements. His temperament is good. He had to go through tough challenges where he scored runs.

“This is a good phase for Shubman and I think the team management has marked him as a player who can play all three formats, which is a big thing,” Karim added.

India will look to continue their domination against Zimbabwe in the remaining two matches. The second game will be played at the Harare Sports Club, Harare on Saturday.