If Ishan Kishan is KL Rahul’s backup in ODI World Cup, he should learn to play at number five: RP Singh

RP Singh and Ishan Kishan. (Photo Source: Twitter and RANDY BROOKS/AFP via Getty Images)

In case KL Rahul is ruled out of the upcoming Asia Cup and the ODI World Cup, Ishan Kishan seems to be the favourite to replace the Mangalore-born cricketer. He was sensational in the recently concluded ODI series against West Indies and was also adjudged the Player of the Series.

However, former India cricketer RP Singh wants the southpaw to play at number five in the remaining matches in order to get adapted to the role. Notably, he has been tested as an opener so far but with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill available for selection, it is unlikely that Kishan will find a room. Thus, RP Singh wants the team management to try him at number five and prepare him for that position.

“According to me, Ishan should play at No. 5 if you see him at No. 5 for the (ODI) World Cup. If KL Rahul is unavailable in the future, Ishan Kishan is his backup option. So he has to learn to play at No. 5,” Singh said while talking to JioCinema.

“When Rohit Sharma comes, Rohit and Shubman Gill will open, although Gill’s performance has slightly saddened our hearts. But still if both of them open, where can Ishan Kishan get a place, it is down the order,” he added.

RP Singh wants team management to back Yashavi Jaiswal

Jaiswal made his debut in the third T20I against West Indies, but couldn’t create any sort of impact. However, the 37-year-old wants the team management to back him as a one-off affair cannot justify the impact one can create. Hence, he wants Jaiswal to play more frequently as his fearless approach can help the team.

“You cannot give a player just one match. According to me, you should give him at least three, four or five matches. You get to see the fearless approach in one match. If he scores runs, he continues with the same approach in the next match. If he doesn’t score runs, a batter falls slightly behind,” Singh mentioned.