Thu Nov 21 21:36:31 UTC 2024: ## Kohli Urged to Return to No. 3 for Injured India Ahead of Australia Test
**Perth, Australia** – With key players Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill ruled out of the opening Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test against Australia, India faces a significant batting reshuffle. The absence of the captain and star opener leaves gaping holes at the top of the order. While several names are being floated to fill the vacancies, former Indian cricketer Kirti Azad has thrown his support behind Virat Kohli returning to the crucial No. 3 position.
Kohli, historically a prolific No. 3 batter across all formats, has recently cemented himself at No. 4. However, Azad believes Kohli’s experience and skill make him the ideal candidate to replace the injured Gill. “I think Kohli is the best bet for number three,” Azad told the Times of India. “He has scored runs at number three, and you should always have your best batter at number three.”
This suggestion is notable given Kohli’s recent struggles. He failed to reach a century in his last six innings against New Zealand and has only one half-century in his last ten Test innings. Despite this dip in form, Azad remains optimistic, stating, “I suppose he has done a humane service for the country, and we expect him to do well again. He likes challenges.”
Other potential candidates for the opening and No. 3 spots include KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Sarfaraz Khan. The Indian team management faces a critical decision as they prepare for the challenging Australian conditions. The first Test in Perth is set to kick off [Insert Date Here].
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