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KL Rahul, India (Source: Twitter)
The middle order has been a concern for Team India for a long period of time in the last few years. After MS Dhoni and Yuvraj Singh's retirement, the Men in Blue have tried a lot of players but none of them have lift upto the expectations. According to India's veteran off-spinner, Ravichandran Ashwin the player who is really able to fill the shoes of these players is KL Rahul.
"Ever since Yuvraj Singh and MS Dhoni retired, India were desperately looking for a replacement. Rahul has filled that slot with expertise. He is a definite lock at No.5 and is also our wicketkeeper-batsman," Ashwin was quoted as saying in the video on his YouTube channel.
"Before Pant's injury, Rahul was second in line and now Ishan Kishan is the second keeper, he has grabbed that opportunity with both hands. Rahul has some niggle but hopefully, he will be ready for the first game. If he is not we have an 18-member travelling with squad in Sanju Samson," the 36-year-old asserted.
Shreyas Iyer is as important as KL Rahul to this side: Ravichandran Ashwin
Ashwin also praised former Kolkata Knight Riders skipper, Shreyas Iyer and opined that according to him, the Mumbai-born cricketer is the best option that Team India have right now for the number four position despite young Tilak Varma's inclussion for the Asia Cup 2023.
"Shreyas Iyer is as important as KL Rahul to this side. One of the best players in the Indian line-up against spin and a consistent No.4 for India. He has played a crucial part in their success whenever he has played at 4. If he is completely fit to play, there should be no debate on No. 4 position," the Chennai-born player stated.
All the three batters, Rahul, Iyer and Varma would be next seen playing in the 16th edition of the Asia Cup, which is scheduled to kick start on August 30. India will play their opening game of the tournament against arch-rivals, Pakistan on September 2 at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, Sri Lanka.