Ambati Rayudu’s failures in the first three ODIs resulted in his axing from the side in fourth ODI against Australia in Mohali. In the fourth game, India demoted their skipper, Virat Kohli to no.4, with KL Rahul batting at no.3. But, KL Rahul failed to impress and didn’t have the right intent to strike gold in what was a big opportunity for him.
Former Indian cricketer, Sanjay Manjrekar has suggested the player that he thinks should get a go-ahead at no.4 for world’s no.2 ranked ODI side.
“Vijay Shankar is my number 4 for his ability to hit sixes as well as rotate the strike. Play him as a batsman. As a bowler, he’s worth only three-odd bonus overs, not seven or the full quota of 10,” the cricketer-turned-commentator was quoted as saying by the Times of India.
Vijay Shankar has been impressive in whatever opportunities he has got so far in the limited-overs format. The fact that he can send down a few overs as well, makes him a good option for the team.
When asked about Rayudu’s case for the same role, Manjrekar said: “After his 90 against New Zealand in Wellington, I was sure he had cemented his spot. But three low scores and the rise of Vijay Shankar thereafter have put his place in question.”