NEW DELHI: Ishan Kishan's versatility in adapting to different batting positions has proven to be a valuable asset for the team, especially in the absence of Shubman Gill, according to batting coach Vikram Rathour.
Kishan was initially selected as a reserve opener in the World Cup squad but had previously batted in the middle order during the Asia Cup when Shreyas Iyer was unavailable.
With Gill sidelined for the first two games of the World Cup due to dengue, Kishan seamlessly stepped into the opening role.
Rathour mentioned that there was no need for a specific conversation with Kishan regarding his batting position since Kishan himself has expressed a preference for opening. His ability to adapt and perform effectively in different situations has been a valuable asset for the team.
"He has opened in the past and he has played as an opener. So, no specific discussion on that. He understands the moment. That was the reason he has been in the team.
"We knew that he can bat top of the order or in the middle order. So, he has done that before. So, no specific discussion on that. Just hoping that he comes good tomorrow," said Rathour on the eve of the game against Afghanistan.
Kishan had got out without scoring in the opener against Australia.
On Gill, Rathour said he is recovering well in Chennai.
"He is recovering well. He was hospitalised, yes, but that was more as a precaution. He is back in the hotel; he is recovering well. So, being monitored by the medical team and whatever update we get, we are hoping that he will recover pretty soon. He is looking good actually. He will be in the mix soon."
Surya bat long in optional nets; Kohli, Hardik choose to rest
Several Indian players, including Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, and Shreyas Iyer, had productive batting practice in the optional net session,. They faced the net bowlers, as the main Indian bowlers, such as Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, and Mohammad Shami, chose to rest at the hotel.
Shardul Thakur, who is unlikely to feature in the upcoming match, did some bowling practice before picking up the bat himself. Captain Rohit Sharma and Ishan Kishan took turns batting in the nets.
Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, KL Rahul, and Kuldeep Yadav opted not to participate in the session.
During his batting stint, Rohit was hit on the left thigh but continued to bat despite the discomfort.
Both Ishan Kishan and Shreyas Iyer will be eager to make amends after not being able to score runs in the previous match against Australia.
(With PTI inputs)
