Ex-India Selector Backs Ishan Kishan, Suryakumar Yadav For Middle-order If KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer Not Fit

With the ICC ODI World Cup and Asia Cup 2023 around the corner, the Indian team selectors are still not sure as to will make it to the squad. 

The middle-order is one such position where there are names to be filled up. Former wicketkeepr and selector Saba Karim feels that the likes of Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav could be the likely replacements if KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer aren't fit.

Kishan had a decent run in the ODI series against the West Indies wherein he scored fifties in all three games whilst being in the opening slot. The 25-year-old southpaw has scored 694 runs from 17 ODIs that includes his historic 210 against Bangladesh.

With fitness doubts over the likes of KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav and Ishan Kishan could be the ideal replacements.

KL Rahul suffered a thigh injury, leading to Ishan Kishan being roped in as the second wicket-keeper behind KS Bharat for the ICC World Test Championship 2023 Final against Australia. Similarly, Shreyas's recurring back injury led to the discussions about Suryakumar Yadav potentially replacing him.

“The selectors should take KL Rahul and Shreyas Iyer into consideration — they can be included in the team if they are fit. But the wait has not ended, the team will be announced on the 20th from what I know, they have the time until then,”

“But if they are not fit, Ishan Kishan is a good option against Rahul since he can bat as an opener and in the middle-order.”

“If Shreyas Iyer is not fit, you have 2-3 options to pick from, in Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson and Suryakumar Yadav. But for me, Suryakumar has gained experience of playing one-day cricket both domestically and internationally. I will still back Suryakumar Yadav,” said Karim.