Virat Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma wants Sanju Samson to bat at number three in the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand. Samson was not given a chance in the T20I series against the Kiwis but he is expected to get his opportunities in the ODI series.
However, Samson didn’t bat at number three in the first ODI against the Blackcaps at Eden Park, Auckland on Friday. Samson batted at number six and joined forces with Shreyas Iyer, who batted at one down in the absence of Virat Kohli after Kane Williamson decided to bowl first in the first game.
During a discussion on India News, Rajkumar Sharma stated: “The batting order can be changed. I want Sanju Samson to bat at No. 3. He is a very good player up the order. Surya (Suryakumar Yadav) can bat at No.4. India has Rishabh Pant as well.”
Meanwhile, Shreyas Iyer has been struggling with short-pitched deliveries however Sharma backed the Mumbai batter to bounce back. At the time of writing, Iyer was batting unbeaten on 26 runs.
“Shreyas Iyer is struggling a little, but he needs to be given some confidence. He has been in trouble against the short ball. I am sure he must be working on it. As for the final selection, it all depends on the team management – what thought process they have.”
On the other hand, former Indian stumper Saba Karim feels Shreyas Iyer deserves to bat at number three as he has been performing consistently for the team.
“Considering Shreyas Iyer’s contribution in the previous series, I feel he deserves to bat at No.3. Suryakumar Yadav will be No. 4. I want Sanju Samson to play and bat at No.5. The time has come to give him chances. He has been batting responsibly of late.”
Karim also added that Shahbaz Ahmed can be a good alternative for Ravindra Jadeja, who is currently out with a knee injury. However, Ahmed didn’t get a chance in the starting XI in the first ODI against the hosts.
“Shahbaz Ahmed is a very valuable player. He can prove to be a good alternative for Ravindra Jadeja. I have followed him in domestic cricket and he is someone who can come in at No. 6 as a batting all-rounder if needed and can also be a fifth or sixth bowling option.”
India was given a good start by Shubman Gill and Shikhar Dhawan as they added 124 runs for the opening alliance.
