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3 Players That Can Replace KL Rahul In The Indian T20 XI

Indian cricket team opener KL Rahul has failed to get going since his comeback to the national team after a long injury layoff. The vice-captain did not manage to find his form against Zimbabwe and was dismissed for a golden duck against Pakistan in the Asia Cup.

Despite scoring 36 off 39 balls against Hong Kong, the 31-year-old was seen struggling during his stay at the crease. Many have raised questions over his selection of the Indian top-order star with the Men in Blue consisting of many talented younger players in the pool. Let’s look at three players who could replace KL Rahul in the T20 XI.

Who can replace KL Rahul in the Indian T20 XI?

Ishan Kishan

The young opening batter would be a seamless fit into the Indian team having featured for the Men in Blue in the recent past. He plays fearlessly ensuring his side is off to a flier start, especially  in the powerplay. A pairing of Kishan and the Indian team skipper Rohit Sharma also provides the left-hand-right-hand combination up top, something that’s currently missing. 

 The duo has also played together often when they play for Indian Premier League (IPL) side Mumbai Indians during the tournament. Just like KL Rahul, the youngster is also able to play the role of wicketkeeper if needed which makes him a standout candidate. Citing all the pros, Kishan seems to be a solid replacement for KL Rahul who could possibly solve India’s top-order woes.

Deepak Hooda

Another option who could open the innings for India in the shortest format of the game is Deepak Hooda. The top order batter has been one of the best players for the Men in Blue.  He currently fails to make it to the XI due to the quality of players in the middle order. One option for Rahul Dravid and co to rope him in the team is play Hooda as an opener, with KL Rahul still looking to get his form back. 

ALSO READ: How Can Rishabh Pant Break Into India’s T20 Playing XI?

The 27-year-old has batted in various positions and shone when given a chance to play at the top for India. His nine game T20I career is promising which would make the Indian team management look to make him a regular in the XI. Hooda, who is also a handy off-spinner brings in a much-needed part time bowling option in the top four of the Indian team. He can be the sixth bowling option for the Men in Blue and is also a solid fielder in the outfield which is a big plus.

Rishabh Pant

The 24-year-old wicket keeper batter has failed to replicate his Test cricket antics in the shortest format of the game while playing for the Indian cricket team. Despite having all the talent and abilities to succeed in the T20 format, Pant has not been consistent in T20Is, and currently averages 23.86. He needs to find some rhythm and could open in order to get more time in the middle. Pant is an absolute matchwinner and was tried as an opener in the recent game. The experiment could go on as Pant is capable of winning games from any situation on his own.

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