New Delhi: Vice-captain KL Rahul attended a press conference before the first Test match in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. The batter answered some key questions on team combination and the pitch. He indicated that the playing XI has not been decided yet and there is a ‘temptation’ to play three spinners in Nagpur.
Having seen the pitch, Rahul hinted at India going with three spin options. He said that there is a ‘temptation’ to play three spinners but how the pitch plays can be seen on the match-day only, so they will take the call just a day before or on the match-day itself.
Answering about his batting position, he said that if the team wants he is ready to bat in the middle order. Talking about the playing XI and team combination, Rahul said that this time it is a ‘tough decision’ to select an XI out of the 15-men squad as everyone is a match-winner. He added that the team will take the decision based on what is suited best for the particular game.
On Kuldeep Yadav being dropped after being the Player of the Match, the batter said that there have been questions on selection but a player plays if he fits the particular position. He added that everyone is clear about their roles and the team environment is good.
Talking about Australia, he said that they have quality pacers and the Indian team knows the threat they can pose. He added that playing against Australia excites him due to the challenges. He also said that Australia has the most left-handed batters and that will help Indian bowlers as bowling to two consecutive left-handers will help them to settle with their lines and lengths.
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy will kickstart at the VCA Stadium in Nagpur on February 9.
