New Zealand vs India: VVS Laxman wants Dinesh Karthik to bat at three in T20I series

Virat Kohli, the Indian captain, has been a fulcrum of the batting lineup at the number three position, especially in limited-overs cricket. India are currently playing a three-match T20I series against the Black Caps and Kohli isn’t a part of the series as he has been after he captained the Men in Blue in the first three ODIs in Napier and Mount Maunganui respectively.

In the meantime, former Indian batsman VVS Laxman feels that India should send Dinesh Karthik to bat at three in Kohli’s absence. He said the team needs to entrust the wicketkeeper-batsman with more responsibilities. Laxman also highlighted the importance of developing more match-winners. Moreover, Laxman had words of praises for Baroda all-rounder Krunal Pandya.

Rishabh has been in very good touch

“India will take the momentum from their Wellington win into the Twenty20 Internationals. I for one believe that it is imperative to keep looking to develop more match-winners. Towards that end, I would like to see Dinesh Karthik bat at No. 3 in Virat’s absence,” Laxman was quoted as saying in The Times of India (TOI).

“It’s important to entrust greater responsibility to DK, Rishabh Pant and Krunal Pandya. Rishabh has been in very good touch and Krunal caught the eye during the T20s in Australia, with ball and bat. They can both deliver the big blows at the death alongside the pedigreed Hardik, which is a welcome sign with the future in mind,” he added.

Even one and half years ago, Karthik wasn’t a part of the national team, but a few blistering knocks here and there have made sure that he has developed himself as a finisher for the team. He is also expected to play the World Cup next year in England and Wales. For the time being, the Tamil Nadu-batsman would be keen to get some decent scores under his belt in the T20I series.

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