With India’s poor batting show against Afghanistan in their World Cup 2019 match last weekend, the most debatable question has once again come into the fore that who would now be asked to bat at No. 4 for Men in Green in the ongoing showpiece event in England. 

While many have opined that Rishabh Pant, who came in as cover for Shikhar Dhawan, would be given a chance at the slot, but former India coach Anshuman Gaekwad has a different view on the same, preferring experienced Kedar Jadhav or Dinesh Karthik over the young Delhi lad for the crucial role.  

Gaekwad told IANS on Tuesday, 25th June, “Kedar Jadhav is a smart cricketer. He is a busy player and can rotate the strike. He can also play his shots. I think he should bat at no. 4.” 

He has represented India in 40 Tests and 15 ODIs, besides coaching the national team from October 1997 to September 1999, and again in 2000 for a brief period - before John Wright’s signing. 

Gaekwad signed off by saying, “The other option is Dinesh Karthik. He has the experience and is a proven finisher. He likes to take his time at the crease and that is important when India is in trouble. You need someone who can stem the rot along with Virat (Kohli).” 

Noteworthy, India managed only 224/8 against Afghanistan, who almost pulled off a shock win over the Men in Blue, but thanks Mohammed Shami whose hattrick saved the match for the side. 

(With IANS Inputs)