A small but notable change unfolded during India’s innings in the second ODI in Raipur as KL Rahul walked in ahead of Washington Sundar, reversing their usual batting order. The moment came right after Ruturaj Gaikwad’s dismissal for a superb 105, with India placed strongly at 257/3 in 35.5 overs.
Rahul, who is also leading the side in this match, promoted himself to No. 5 instead of sending Washington Sundar — a move that suggests India wanted stability through Rahul’s experience as they approached the final 14 overs.
The decision also aligns with the platform set by the massive 195-run stand between Gaikwad and Virat Kohli, where a senior batter was preferred to continue the momentum rather than exposing an all-rounder immediately.
Washington, who has been batting above Rahul in previous games, will now follow him in the lineup today.
India, meanwhile, continue to dominate with Kohli cruising into the nineties and the scoring rate consistently above seven.
