India's Search for a New Number Three Continues in Afghanistan Series
Virat Kohli will be missing out on the ODI series against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury. And this has put down some questions on who could take the number three spot in the ODI format. Morne Morkel revealed that the team will try players such as Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
The series against Afghanistan will be the first in a long time where Virat Kohli won't be available for the Indian team. He has been an active part in the ODI side for more than a decade but he will be missing out on the series against Afghanistan. Kohli was ruled out of the series due to a hamstring injury, while Jaiswal came in as a replacement.
Right before the series, a press conference took place where India's bowling coach, Morne Morkel was also present. Questions were asked to him regarding India's number three in this series. He replied by saying, “Ishan or KL or Jaiswal… we will try different players at No.3 in this series and see how it goes. Gives us an opportunity to try few things.”
Ishan Kishan will be making his comeback in the ODI side after a long time. While he used to open, he will be tried by the team to bat at number three. Yashasvi Jaiswal also comes as a possible batter at this spot, and KL Rahul, the most versatile batsman, also remains a contender till Kohli returns.
Our Take
It is sure that without Virat Kohli, it will be challenging for the Indian team to find a player who fits in his spot. Kohli has been batting at number three for more than a decade and he has achieved records at this place, other players couldn't even come close to. But with his unavailability, the Indian team also remains confused on who could be a potential number three for them in the near future.