The highly-anticipated Asia Cup 2023 encounter between India and Pakistan is just around the corner, scheduled for September 2. Ahead of the clash, Team India received a setback as head coach Rahul Dravid confirmed KL Rahul’s unavailability for the initial two matches due to injury. Rahul’s absence has sparked discussions about potential batting order reshuffles. Former Indian cricket team opener, Aakash Chopra, took to the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) to delve into the strategic possibilities that the team management could explore against Pakistan. His insights even involve contemplating some bold decisions.

Chopra put forth five crucial questions to mull over: “KLR unavailable for the first two games. Opens up a host of discussion points…does Ishan open? If yes, where will Shubman bat? Or Rohit-Gill-Ishan bat 1-2-3 and then Kohli bats at 4? Or Rohit-Gill open…Kohli at 3 and Ishan at 5? Or Gill gets benched and Tilak/SKY bat at 5?”

The absence of KL Rahul adds complexity to India’s batting order. With Ishan Kishan expected to take on the wicket-keeping role, various options and decisions emerge for the team management.