ICC World Cup 2019: Lakshmipathy Balaji names another contender for India’s number 4

With the ICC World Cup only three and a half months away, India are still in search of quite a few answers, surrounding their batting order- one of them is their most appropriate number four. Ambati Rayudu, after impressing in the games last year, seemed to have cemented his place. However, a few poor shows in Australia meant that he was sidelined for one odd game.

In that encounter itself, MS Dhoni played a match-winning knock and talks of sending MSD at that position sparked. Nevertheless, Rayudu came back and got his form back in the ODI series against New Zealand. In the meantime, Lakshmipathy Balaji, the former Indian fast bowler, has put forth another name for the much-debated spot for the upcoming World Cup in England and Wales.

He will be considered as one of the important reserves

“So far he (Vijay Shankar) has proven himself as a batsman. With his batting ability, now he is pushing his case very very strongly. India are always trying to fill someone at the No. 4 spot. If Vijay Shankar comes good, you have another option for that spot. Vijay Shankar is making a strong case now for a top-order spot. His name will definitely be discussed,” Balaji was quoted as saying in India Today.

“Definitely. Vijay Shankar will be part of India’s World Cup squad. He has produced results with his bat. He should be there because he has showcased his immense potential in the limited chances he has got.

He will be considered as one of the important reserves. He may not be fitting in the playing XI, but you need a strong bench strength. You reserve need to fight for spots in the XI,” Balaji remarked.

Shankar got his opportunity in the ODI series against Australia where he was called upon as a replacement of Hardik Pandya, who was handed a suspension following the Koffee With Karan episode. Though he hasn’t been able to do anything of sorts with the ball in hand, the 28-year-old has churned out some decent knocks and even batted at number three in the T20I series against the Kiwis.

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