India has transitioned from a top-order dominant batting lineup, as observed during the preparations for the 2017 Champions Trophy and the 2019 World Cup, to a more balanced approach that emphasizes the middle order. The recent One Day International series against England has yielded positive outcomes for India, particularly in the middle order, spearheaded by the reliable Shreyas Iyer. Nevertheless, there remains some ambiguity regarding the middle-order positions, as head coach Gautam Gambhir has indicated a preference for a left-right batting combination, suggesting that there will be no fixed roles within the lineup.

With Virat Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma displaying their form intermittently, India surpassed England in batting performance, largely due to the contributions from the middle order. The players occupying positions No. 4 to 7 collectively amassed 375 runs across three innings at an impressive strike rate of 116.42, including three half-centuries. In contrast, England's six players in similar positions managed only 278 runs at a strike rate of 23.16, with two half-centuries.

Iyer emerged as the top run-scorer in the middle order. Although there were considerations to exclude him from the opening match in favor of testing a left-right combination at the top, he ultimately scored two fifties, accumulating a total of 181 runs at an average of 60.33. However, a report from the Times of India indicated that a "heated" selection meeting took place regarding Iyer's inclusion in the squad.

Rishabh Pant vs KL Rahul still on?

The report further indicated that the Indian team management, led by Gambhir, opposed chief selector Ajit Agarkar's stance by supporting KL Rahul. During a press conference for the Champions Trophy last month, the former Indian fast bowler had confirmed Pant as the primary wicketkeeper for the ICC tournament and the ODIs against England. However, both Rohit Sharma and Gambhir emphasized the importance of continuity, as Rahul participated in all three matches against England.

"Ajit Agarkar, the head of the selection committee, stated during the announcement of the Champions Trophy squad that Pant was the primary wicketkeeper. Interestingly, Pant was the only player in the squad who did not participate in any of the three ODIs against England. Sources suggested that there was intense discussion during the selection meeting regarding the retention of Shreyas Iyer and the second wicketkeeper position," the TOI report noted.

In his final press conference prior to India's departure for the Champions Trophy, Gambhir confirmed that Rahul would be the first-choice wicketkeeper for the tournament, surpassing Pant.

“It is challenging to discuss individual players, but I can assert that if Pant is included in the squad, he will have his chance. Currently, KL is our primary wicketkeeper, and he has performed well for us. With two wicketkeepers in the squad, it is not feasible to play both given the quality we possess. I hope that when Pant receives an opportunity, he will be prepared,” Gambhir stated.

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