Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra believes that the upcoming fifth T20I against Australia provides a significant chance for Jitesh Sharma to make a strong case for inclusion as a wicketkeeper-batsman in the lower-middle order of India’s T20 World Cup squad.
With the Men in Blue already securing an unbeatable 3-1 lead, the final game in Bengaluru on Sunday holds only formality for the Men in Blue. Jitesh showcased his prowess with a dynamic 35-run innings off 19 deliveries in the fourth T20I and will be eager to deliver another impactful performance to strengthen his case for inclusion in the Indian squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup next year.
While talking to his official YouTube channel, Aakash Chopra said, “I think how big an opportunity it is for Jitesh. Ishan Kishan is a gun player. He scored half-centuries in the first two matches. However, the big news is that if Virat (Kohli) plays at No. 3, you won’t be able to make a place for Ishan. So only a keeper who plays at No. 5 or No. 6 can play.”
Aakash Chopra also said that the game against Australia will be very crucial for the Indian openers Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
The former KKR opener said, “I feel it’s an important game for Rutu and Yashasvi because the more runs you score, the closer you will remain to the Indian team when Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill are back. Keep accumulating runs so that the pressure remains on the selectors.”
