England vs India: Will Prithvi Shaw play 5th Test?
India could be tempted to field Prithvi Shaw at the Oval when they take on England in the fifth and final Test match. The visitors have already lost the 5-match Test series 1-3 after England won at Southampton. There are a few issues which India need to address and one of them is to have a solid partnership atop. Will Shaw feature in XI?
Rahul could make way for Shaw
Shaw can stake a claim as an opener and replace either Shikhar Dhawan or KL Rahul. With Dhawan getting off to starts, it could be Rahul that could make way. The right-handed batsman suffered another flop show at Southampton after scoring 19 and 0. Rahul has been a failure in this series with a best of 36. He has featured in every match.
Rahul's last 13 away innings a sheer let down
Rahul's last 13 innings away from the sub-continent read- 28, 10, 4, 0, 16, 4, 13, 8, 10, 23, 36, 19, 0. Not even a single 50+ score has put his place in question. He could be the next player to be axed post Vijay.
Shaw deserves to get a chance
India should give Shaw a chance and see how he fares against the best bowlers at the biggest level. He has been called to the Indian side for a reason and with the series lost, this match is a chance for him to come out and bat. India have nothing to lose and Shaw seems as a positive change for the visiting team.
Shaw in prime form with the bat
The talented batsman scored debut tons in Ranji Trophy and the Duleep Trophy. After a splendid IPL, he amassed two tons versus West Indies A, followed by another century against South Africa A. Shaw has 1,418 runs in First-class cricket from just 14 matches. He has already amassed 7 tons and has a stellar average of 56.72.
Fans want to see Shaw open the innings
Fans on Twitter have called for the inclusion of Shaw in the starting line-up in the 5th Test. After India's loss, many fans have come forward to show their support for youth. They have also lashed out at Rahul for his repeated failures.
