On the eve of the third Test, India’s captain Rohit Sharma left the KL Rahul vs. Shubman Gill controversy unresolved, saying that the former’s removal as vice-captain doesn’t signify anything and that the management will continue to support the players with “potential.”
In the optional practice on Tuesday, Rohit and Gill batted in close proximity nets, while Rahul opted to remain in the hotel with the majority of the team. During Monday’s practice session, both Gill and Rahul batted at the same time.
Rahul averages 33.4 after 47 Tests, while Gill has been patiently waiting for his chance in red-ball cricket after a sensational season in limited overs cricket.
Rahul was relieved of his vice-captaincy following the second Test in Delhi, raising hopes of a change for the final two games. Rahul has not scored more than 25 runs in his last ten Test innings.
The tension was kept up until the very end by Rohit.
“I also talked about it following the previous game. Given their potential, players who are going through a tough time will have enough time to prove themselves “During a media interview, Rohit said.
“It makes no difference whether you are a vice captain or not. He was the vice-captain at the time. Nothing is revealed by his removal as vice-captain.”
The captain responded to a question asked about Gill and Rahul’s preparation by saying, “Gill and KL Rahul train that way before every game, as far as I’m aware. For the entire group, today was a voluntary training day. All who desired to attend did so.
I would prefer to do it at the toss as far as 11 is concerned. That’s how I prefer it to be because there could be last-minute injuries.
India has a 2-0 series lead over the other three games, and a victory here would guarantee them a spot in the World Test Championship final in June.
