3 Reasons why Srikar Bharat could be a good option as a wicketkeeper in the first Test against England

KS Bharat, one of India’s best wicketkeepers, is included in India’s five-match test series against England. Made his debut in 2023 in test matches, Bharat played in eight innings and scored 129 runs. He might not have much experience in batting but he is a brilliant keeper. He has played some great knocks in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Bharat played IPL in 2021 and came to light with his 78 runs off 52 balls against Delhi Capitals.

The match was tough as RCB lost three early wickets. He, along with Glenn Maxwell saved the match. Moreover, Bharat hasn’t played enough matches for India yet. Thus, it’s difficult to judge him as a batter. As he has been selected for the test series against India, it will be exciting to see him bat on home soil.

Look at three reasons why KS Bharat should be included in the test series against England:

1. Handy Keeper

First and the most important reason has to be his KS Bharat’s keeping skills. His glove work is extremely neat and perfect. He has proved time and again that he can be a good keeping option for India in case anyone misses out. Moreover, in 2021, he replaced Wridhiman Saha in the final test against New Zealand and did a good job with the gloves. After KL Rahul, Bharat can be a trusted keeping option for India.

2. Can be a strong back-up option

KS Bharat is a fine opening batter and can be a good option as an opener. While playing against Leicestershire he scored 43 runs off 98 balls with Shubman Gill. They had a partnership of 62 runs and played quite patiently. For an uncapped player, Bharat did extremely well. Thus, if given a chance, Bharat might perform well as an opener.

3. Reduces KL Rahul’s workload

In the absence of Ishan Kishan and Rishab Pant, India has only KL Rahul as their first wicket-keeper. Thus, Bharat’s inclusion in the test squad will bring down Rahul’s workload and will help India have a second wicket-keeping option. It’s not sure whether he’ll be there in the team or not, however, they might include him in the team if in case someone fails to perform.