With the series already in the bag, the Indian team management has announced that Virat Kohli will be given rest in the 3rd and final T20I against South Africa. With the T20I World Cup just around the corner, the Men in Blue want their prime batter to be well-rested and fresh. Virat Kohli roared back into form during the Asia Cup 2022 and has been getting back to his best ever since. The Indian run machine scored runs against Australia before playing a wonderful uneaten knock of 49 runs against South Africa in the 2nd T20I.
Now, in this post, we will take a look at three players who could replace Virat Kohli in the 3rd T20I:
1. Mohammed Siraj
India haven’t been doing well in the bowling department lately. With the idea of trying another bowler before leaving for Australia, India could enforce their bowling unit in the absence of Virat Kohli. Furthermore, the Indian middle-order hasn’t got many opportunities to bat in the series. It will also provide them with a chance to bat higher-up in the order.
Also Read: 3 players who can replace Jasprit Bumrah in India’s T20 World Cup 2022 squad
2. Shahbaz Ahmed
With an eye on the future, India could think of bringing in talented all-rounder Shahbaz Ahmed. The batting all-rounder has impressed everyone for a while with his exploits in white-ball cricket. More so, he also has a couple of decent seasons in the IPL behind him. It could be the right time to test the youngster against a strong Proteas unit in home conditions.
3. Shreyas Iyer
The right-handed batter has played at number three recently whenever Virat Kohli was absent. The trend is likely to continue on Tuesday as Shreyas Iyer is likely to be included in the Indian Playing XI. Furthermore, the Mumbai batter is also a part of the reserves in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup. Some vital game-time under his belt before flying off to Australia will boost his confidence.
Also Read: 3 India players who could still make it to the T20 World Cup squad
