“My thinking is out of the box” - Kris Srikkanth wants an all-rounder to open with Ishan Kishan against Namibia

Former Chairman of selectors Kris Srikkanth has stated that if he were the captain of the Indian T20I side, he would bring in bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar into the playing XI and make him open the batting, replacing unwell Abhishek Sharma.

Advertisment

Notably, India is scheduled to take on Namibia in their second group stage encounter at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Thursday, February 12. According to the Indian team management, Sundar has achieved full fitness and joined the squad in Delhi, making himself available for selection.

Speaking exclusively on his YouTube channel, Srikkanth went on to add that once Abhishek comes back to the XI, he would push Sundar to the middle-order, removing Rinku Singh from the playing XI. 

"If I were the captain, I would have had a different thought process. Sanju is totally out of form. I will bring Washington Sundar in and make him open. I want him to be fit and play the match against Pakistan. If Abhishek comes back for the Pakistan game, I will push Sundar to eight and remove Rinku Singh. My thinking is out of the box here. Samson has been given a fair run and he has not done anything. It is just to give Sundar the feel of a match," Kris Srikkanth said on the 'Cheeky Cheeka' YouTube channel.

It’s important to note that Abhishek was hospitalized after suffering a stomach infection. However, he was discharged later on Wednesday evening. However, his participation in the game against Namibia is still unclear.

"Abhishek Sharma playing against Namibia and getting back rhythm is very important. The momentum in cricket is very important. So him not playing will be a very big loss. Only good thing is Sanju may get an opportunity. We have to see if he can capitalise or not. He has to capitalise on this chance, there is no other choice," he added.

Stay updated with the latest cricket news, match insights, and exclusive updates at Sky247 India and download the Sky247 app to start betting today!

Advertisment