KL Rahul faced ongoing scrutiny from fans and former players, yet he delivered an impressive performance during the opening match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Perth. In the first innings, Rahul scored 26 runs off 74 balls as India was bowled out for 150. In reply, the Australian team faltered, managing only 104 runs, largely due to a remarkable five-wicket haul by stand-in captain Jasprit Bumrah.

With captain Rohit Sharma absent, Rahul was elevated to the opening position and formed a formidable partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal in the second innings. He scored 77 runs off 176 balls, including five boundaries. Jaiswal, on the other hand, achieved a century, amassing 161 runs from 297 balls, featuring 15 fours and three sixes. Virat Kohli also contributed significantly, reaching an unbeaten 100 runs off 143 balls, leading the visitors to declare at 487 for 6.

In pursuit of a daunting target of 534 runs, Australia faltered, ending their innings at 238, with both Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj claiming three wickets each.

Rohit Sharma missed the first Test due to paternity leave but returned to participate in India's practice match against the Australian Prime Minister's XI, where he batted at number five. Prior to the second Test in Adelaide, the Indian captain confirmed that Rahul would continue to open the innings alongside Jaiswal, while he would take his place in the middle order.

Michael Clarke and Aaron Finch praise Rohit Sharma's decision

Former Australian cricketer Michael Clarke commented on Rohit's batting position, suggesting it could be advantageous for the visiting team, as he may adopt an aggressive strategy against spinners.

During a discussion on ESPNCricinfo, Clarke stated, “I believe they have made their decision. I anticipate he will bat at number five in the Test match. It seems they will retain KL Rahul at the top of the order. Shubman Gill appeared fit and scored runs, looking comfortable, so I expect him to return at number three. Virat will bat at four, and the captain will take the fifth position. However, if he prefers to open, he can do so; if he opts for number five, that is also acceptable.”

Clarke further elaborated, “I think Rohit will determine what is best for the team and proceed accordingly. I recognize that in Australian conditions if he bats at number five, it is because Rahul performed well in the first Test. Rohit is highly aggressive, adept at handling short balls, and excels against spin bowling. I believe he will aim to be particularly aggressive against Nathan Lyon during the middle overs. Therefore, I can understand his choice to bat at five.”

Additionally, former Australian player Aaron Finch, who participated in the discussion, endorsed Clarke's views. “Especially in a pink-ball Test in Adelaide, the significance of the new ball is evident. As Clarke mentioned, if he bats at five, the ball may become softer, making scoring more challenging. However, their middle order is exceptionally aggressive, which will be intriguing to observe, as the team appears significantly stronger with Rohit batting at five, in my opinion,” he remarked.

Finch praised Rahul's performance in Perth, stating, “KL Rahul was the standout among Indian batters, particularly in the first innings under challenging conditions. If they keep him at the top, it poses a significant threat to Australia.”

The second Test is set to commence on December 6 in Adelaide, with the visitors aiming to extend their lead.

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