ODI World Cup 2023: Ishan Kishan likely to open against Australia

With regular opener and promising batter Shubman Gill’s availability uncertain for India’s opening clash against formidable Australia during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, explosive wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan is likely to open.

As per reports, Kishan will bat along with skipper Rohit Sharma at the top of the order.

Renowned for his explosive batting in ODIs, Gill is currently grappling with health issues, primarily a high temperature. 

Gill’s availability for Sunday’s match remains uncertain. Should Shubman Gill be unable to take the field, Ishan appears to be the frontrunner to step in.

KL Rahul is unlikely to be assigned the opening position, given his current role as a middle-order batsman and wicketkeeper, as confirmed by Head Coach Rahul Dravid. In such a scenario, Ishan emerges as the top choice to take up the opening role. Notably, Kishan has previously performed well as an opening batsman.

Moreover, the slow and low playing surface in Chennai is expected to favor veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, increasing his chances of featuring in the playing XI. The team management is keen on capitalizing on the pitch conditions, as Ashwin is known for his effectiveness on home turf.