KL Rahul batting strategy during the first innings of the opening Test match between India and Australia in Nagpur has been criticised by former Indian bowling ace Harbhajan Singh. Rahul could have scored more runs, according to the ex-cricketer, if he had been more focused at the wicket during India’s opening innings.
Together with Rohit Sharma, who opened the batting for India, KL Rahul had a strong opening partnership. However, the graceful opener lost his wicket towards the tail end of the first day after playing a careless shot. He managed 20 runs from 71 deliveries and just one boundary.
Despite the 30-year-helpful old’s contribution, Harbhajan Singh believes he could have gained more from his start if he had displayed more determined intent at the crease. The former Indian cricketer claimed that it would have greatly boosted Rahul’s confidence, as he has recently come off as unmotivated.
“He would frustrate KL Rahul since it was taking longer.
I think he could have scored more goals if he had continued to play aggressively. If he gets the chance to bat in the second innings, I hope he would get some runs for his confidence “Speaking on his own YouTube account, Harbhajan Singh remarked.
In the second innings, I don’t think Australia will be able to score more than 200 runs: Harbhajan
The renowned cricketer expressed hope for a score of more than 300 runs in the first innings for the Indian team, which may be a tall order for the Australians, who would be lucky to reach 200 runs. He believes that a world-class Indian spin assault will present a difficult second innings for the visitors.
“I’m expecting India scores between 300 and 350 on this field. In spite of having scored more than 50 runs, captain Rohit Sharma is still in the game. I don’t think Australia will be able to score more than 200 runs in the second innings if India gets anywhere close to 350. This pitch will spin more the more you bowl on it. Australia will give up against India’s three spinners if it spins “Added he.