“Why?” said Karthik on a Cricbuzz show upon being asked if Jaiswal will open with Rohit.”Yes, Jaiswal has a great opportunity to be the backup opener and will get his opportunity soon if Shubman doesn’t go as well as expected. And India has a very solid middle order as well.”
India have trusted the 24-year-old Gill to accompany Rohit at the top in 50-over internationals from the beginning of last year, which has earned the right-hander 47 ODI caps so far. However, his up and down form lately became a point of debate, especially with Jaiswal doing well in Tests and T20Is.
“In the lead-up to the Champions Trophy, they (India) are just going to be playing three more games (against England at home in February). And I am pretty confident it’s going to be Rohit and Shubman opening in the Champions Trophy,” said Karthik.
India’s last ODI assignment was the three-match series in Sri Lanka, where Rohit & Co lost to the hosts 2-0.
The eight-team Champions Trophy will be returning to the ICC calendar next year, scheduled to be hosted by Pakistan from February 19 to March 9.
India’s participation in the tournament, however, remains in doubt considering the tense political relations between the two nations and the Indian government’s reluctance since 2008 to allow the team to travel to Pakistan.