India will take on Australia in the Third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on March 1 (Wednesday) at Holkar Stadium. Team India leads the four-match series 2-0 and will eye to clean sweep Australia. Rohit Sharma-led side produced a dominating performance to outplay the Aussies, but one of the biggest talking points is the consistent struggles of KL Rahul. The Indian vice-captain managed to hit scores of 22, 23, 10, 2, 20, 17, and 1 in his last seven innings.

Though Rahul’s lean patch continues, he has been retained in the squad for the remaining two Tests. Former India coach Ravi Shastri believes that the idea of picking a vice-captain in a home series would complicate the selection of the best XI when the deputy team leader is not in good form. Shastri also hinted that Shubman Gill should replace Rahul in the squad.

The young opener is resting on the bench despite his stellar run across formats, the pressure is increasing on Rahul. The team management knows Rahul’s form, they know his mental state. If vice-captain does not perform, someone can take his place. I am being blunt and brutal, I never like vice-captain in home condition, Shastri said on the ICC Review podcast.

Now, Rahul is not the vice-captain, it must be team management’s decision, added Shastri. Former cricketer stated that Rahul is a tremendous player, but talent is only so much. He must convert that into results and be consistent. Shastri concluded that a break can do a world of good for a player who is struggling with form.