Is Mayank Agarwal best available option? His current form says YES!

The Indian Test opener, Mayank Agarwal has finally touched Leeds to join the men-in-blue for the ongoing ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 after all-rounder Vijay Shankar was sidelined due to toe injury. Mayank, who is yet to make a debut for India in the limited overs was chosen ahead of the experienced campaigners which made the populous question Board of Control for Cricket in India’s decision.

However, seeing India’s current run in World Cup, Mayank Agarwal isn’t that bad a choice. He has showed his class in the recently concluded Indian Premier League, while playing for the franchise Kings XI Punjab. Further, he has been India A prime man, to provide all-important starts and more importantly, he is a sensational fielder.

With this, News Nation brings to you three reasons why Mayank Agarwal was India’s first choice as replacement for Vijay Shankar:

1. Mayank Agarwal’s exceptional run in last 24 months:

In last two years, Mayank Agarwal has been in exceptional touch with bat. Having played 31 encounters, the 28-year-old, has been score 1747 runs at an exceptional average of 58.23. His run includes, seven tons and six half-centuries.

2. India lack a good finisher:

In the tournament so far, the Indian team has been good in nine out of ten departments. However, there is still a room of improvement in the lower middle-order as India has failed to end the innings on high. With Mayank coming into the setup, it gives Virat Kohli and management a chance to let Rishabh Pant play at number six and KL Rahul be back at number four position.

3. Mayanl Agarwal’s record in English conditions:

Interestingly, his record in English conditions makes his case even stronger. In six innings, he has scored 442 runs at an astonishing average of 88.40. He has three centuries while opening the innings.

However, this remains to be seen if Mayank will feature in the playing XI straight away and if he does, whether he is as effective as he is while playing for India A. The team will play their last league game against Sri Lanka at Headingly in Leeds, and with team already qualifying for the later stages, Virat Kohli may well be tempted to try him at the opening slot.