The Third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy is set for March 1 (Wednesday) at Holkar Stadium. With a 2-0 advantage in the four-match series, India is looking to secure a clean sweep over Australia. Although Rohit Sharma's team has dominated the Aussies so far, KL Rahul's ongoing slump is the main talking point, with the vice-captain failing to make an impact in his last seven innings, scoring only 22, 23, 10, 2, 20, 17, and 1.
India will take on Australia in the Third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on March 1 (Wednesday) at Holkar Stadium. Team India leads the four-match series 2-0 and will eye to clean sweep Australia. Rohit Sharma-led side produced a dominating performance to outplay the Aussies, but one of the biggest talking points is the consistent struggles of KL Rahul. The Indian vice-captain managed to hit scores of 22, 23, 10, 2, 20, 17, and 1 in his last seven innings.
Despite his lack of runs, Rahul is still part of the squad for the last two Tests. However, former India coach Ravi Shastri believes that prioritizing a vice-captain in home conditions can cloud the selection process for the best possible XI when the player is out of form. As a result, Shastri suggested that Shubman Gill should be brought in to replace Rahul.
With Shubman Gill performing brilliantly in all formats yet remaining a substitute, the heat is on Rahul. Shastri mentioned on the ICC Review podcast that the team management is fully aware of Rahul's struggles and mental state. He asserted that if the vice-captain cannot deliver, it's time for a change, stating frankly that he dislikes the practice of naming a vice-captain for home series.
Shastri added that while the decision regarding Rahul's role now lies with the team management, talent alone isn't enough. He acknowledged Rahul as a gifted player but stressed the need for consistency and tangible results. Ultimately, Shastri suggested that stepping away from the game for a short break might be exactly what a struggling player needs to reset.