ENG vs IND: Zaheer Khan names two potential replacements for Ajinkya Rahane in Oval Test

The middle order of the Indian team is having a torrid time in the ongoing Test match series against England. Lack of runs from Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane has hurt the team. While Kohli and Pujara fetched some runs in the Headingley Test, Rahane could not get over his lean patch.

Rahane has been placed under major scrutiny for his current form and mode of dismissals in the Test series. Zaheer Khan feels that owing to Rahane’s poor form, the team will aim for a change in the Playing XI. He suggested the names of Hanuma Vihari and Suraykumar Yadav as replacements for Rahane and stated the choice between the two will depend on how the team management looks at the situation.

"Hanuma Vihari and Suraykumar Yadav are the two options you have. First, they have to decide if they even want to go in that direction then it will depend on how the team management is looking at it. If I see from the way the series has gone so far, then this change should certainly be made,” Zaheer Khan said while speaking to Cricbuzz.

India registered a thrilling victory at Lord’s to take the lead in the five-match Test series. However, in the third Test, the hosts bounced back stronger to exude their domination. They outplayed India in both departments and secured victory by an innings and 76 runs. According to Zaheer Khan, this win has provided momentum to England and they have the edge over India heading into the next Test.

"England definitely have the edge going into this Test because they are coming off such a big win. India were ahead in the series and England leveled it so things like momentum shift and confidence levels will come into play. The England camp will feel they can take the lead and put even more pressure on India for the final Test,” Zaheer added.