AUS vs IND: 'KL Rahul tough to drop even if Rohit Sharma returns, says Gilchrist

Adam Gilchrist believes India faces a tough decision regarding KL Rahul's batting position after his resilient 62-run knock on Day 2 of the Perth Test, as Rohit Sharma's return could disrupt the opener's newly rediscovered form and confidence.

In Short

• Adam Gilchrist questioned KL Rahul's role after Rohit's return
• KL Rahul redeemed himself with an unbeaten 62-run knock
• India’s openers forged a commanding 172-run partnership on Day 2

Former Australia batter Adam Gilchrist has highlighted the challenging decision India will face regarding KL Rahul's role as an opener once regular captain Rohit Sharma returns to the squad. Speaking to Cricbuzz, Gilchrist remarked on how Rahul’s gritty performance on Day 2 of the ongoing Perth Test against Australia intensified the debate. India’s opening duo of Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal delivered a resilient display under pressure, dispelling pre-match concerns over Rohit’s absence.

KL Rahul, who has faced criticism for inconsistency, showcased immense composure in the second innings after a disappointing dismissal in the first innings. His unbeaten 62 on Day 2 marked a significant redemption, adding stability to India’s top order. Gilchrist believes moving Rahul down the order again, where he has often batted at No. 5 or No. 6, could disrupt his rhythm and confidence, especially after such a crucial knock.

AUS vs IND, Perth Test Day 2: Highlights

"What a headache to have two days into a series. Coming over here after a 3-0 dumping to New Zealand and there's a little bit of panic and chaos and uncertainty, and they go up underground for ten days in their build-up and all of a sudden here we are spoilt for options. Nice options for India to have. There's a lot to play out between now and then. We need to see what happens with Shubman Gill, how quickly that injury can heal. What Rohit's mindset is when he turns up, does he come and allow himself a bit more time to be ready for, say, the third test up at the Gabba?" Gilchrist said.

"So many variables in there. It's purely speculation at the moment, but I guess the one thing we do know is the point we touched on KL Rahul is versatile enough to feel any number of those roles and if he's left out after what he's achieved in this series, it'll be a tough leave. It'd be a hard call, but you would assume that they would only do it if they felt that they were making the Indian team stronger for it," he added.

India’s resurgence in the Perth Test began with a sensational bowling performance on Day 1, where the batters faltered, managing just 150 runs. Jasprit Bumrah led from the front with a commanding 5/30 spell, while debutant Harshit Rana contributed crucial wickets with his 3/48, and Mohammed Siraj’s economical 2/20 rattled the Australian lineup. Their efforts bundled out Australia for a mere 104.

On Day 2, India’s openers Rahul and Jaiswal turned the game around with an unbeaten 172-run partnership. Jaiswal, dismissed for a duck in the first innings, played with remarkable resolve, nearing his maiden Test century on Australian soil with 90*. Meanwhile, Rahul’s composed knock silenced his critics and solidified his case as a reliable opener in the absence of Rohit Sharma.

The partnership gave India a commanding 218-run lead at stumps, raising questions about the team’s plans for the opening combination moving forward. With Rahul’s form improving and Jaiswal impressing with his maturity, the management will have a tough call to make when Rohit returns.

The third day promises exciting action as India looks to capitalize on their momentum and further test Australia’s resilience.