Ruturaj Gaikwad is reportedly in line to be the backup opener for the upcoming BGT. However, he is in poor form and did not do well in the first inning of Irani Trophy 2024. Hence, the pressure is mounting on him. On that note, here, we take a look at the list of three backup openers apart from Ruturaj Gaikwad India can consider for BGT.
1) B Sai Sudharsan
B Sai Sudharsan is slowly climbing up the ladder. He seems to have got the technique to succeed in the SENA Nations.
He already has two stints of experience in the County. Plus, his international debut in South Africa went well. Therefore, it could be a good choice to have him on the flight to Australia.
2) Abhimanyu Easwaran
Abhimanyu Easwaran is one of the backup openers apart from Ruturaj Gaikwad India can consider for BGT. It would be a disservice to the Ranji Trophy if Abhimanyu is not picked for the New Zealand series and the BGT.
He has been in smashing form and he has been doing that for a few seasons now. Ideally, he must have made his India debut long back. That did not happen but he absolutely deserves an opportunity now. If he can convert his confidence at the domestic level to internationals, we could have a top player in the making.
3) Devdutt Padikkal
Devdutt Padikkal has actually done well in this format in recent times. Yes, he has not had that defining knock or season but there is potential in him to go to the next level.
That being said, there are still doubts about his game against pace and bounce. However, with India now comfortable with a left-hander as one of the openers, it could be a balance issue if Yashasvi Jaiswal is injured or severely out of form. Hence, DDP is on this list.
