India vs Australia 2019: 3 things we learnt from the 2nd ODI

#1. Vijay Shankar needs to be tried at No.4

Vijay Shankar played some sumptuous strokes

The Indian team sprung a surprise at Nagpur when they promoted Vijay Shankar ahead of MS Dhoni. The lanky lad from Tamil Nadu came into bat at No.5 and captured everyone’s imagination with a silky display of stroke-play.

On a sluggish wicket, Shankar looked the part throughout his vigil at the crease. He tackled Adam Zampa and Nathan Lyon’s threat with dexterity and even put them on the back foot with his repertoire of strokes.

However, the most incredible aspect of his batting was his ability to rotate the strike with ease and maintain an acceptable strike rate while playing risk-free cricket.

The No.4 conundrum has long been left unanswered by the Indian think-tank. Several names such as Ambati Rayudu, Dhoni, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant have been looked upon as potential options yet none have made the spot their own.

But, with Shankar’s fluent innings, the Indian team would be naïve to not provide him an opportunity at No.4. He possesses the necessary technique and mentality to succeed and a good run in the side might just help him nail down the slot.

Additionally, his attribute to get through overs would come in handy as India look for a reliable sixth bowling option.

Whether the Indian team actually takes this decision is anyone’s guess right now. Yet, on evidence, it is certainly an option worth exploring.