Wasim Jaffer backs Rishabh Pant to come good at the top of the order

India will be facing a stern test against New Zealand as the T20I series beginning today could well be a baptism by fire for many new faces away from home and that too against a strong team like the Kiwis. There will be multiple questions looming on the horizon, especially in regards to India’s batting order that will probably stay witness to a few shuffles hither and yon.

With Virat, Rohit, Rahul and Dinesh Karthik not part of the squad, it will be interesting to see what approach Team India resorts to, when the Blackcaps come knocking. A major spectrum of India’s thoughts would revolve around where they would fit Rishabh Pant, now that the number four belongs to Suryakumar Yadav with Hardik Pandya the likeliest to follow suit.

Former RCB batter, Wasim Jaffer had a suggestion for the Indian management ahead of their clash against New Zealand. Talking to ESPNCricinfo, Jaffer said, “I don't think Rishabh has batted there (finisher). He has batted at No. 4 or No. 5 even for the Delhi Capitals, but those places are sealed by Surya and Hardik. I feel that when the field is up and if Rishabh Pant gets going then he is a dangerous player. His best position is at the top of the order.”

He heaped further praise on Rishabh Pant, stating, “Once he gets a start and is 20-30 not out in the powerplay then he is dangerous. Then even if the fielders are out, it doesn't matter to him. But when he comes to bat at No. 5, the field is already out and the pressure is on him. It is difficult for him to hit sixes straightaway. He is such a player from whom you can expect a blistering start.”

Only time will reveal the approach of the Indian management, but at the moment, it’s all about that intense rivalry that these two teams will be eagerly looking forward to, especially as it involves healing the wounds of the T20 World Cup.