Dravid 'may' (!) Open

(Media Watch Two for Dec 21 Morning Papers)

Dravid May Open in Tests -- It was an interesting headline in the Hindu talking about the indications that ‘’the Indian team down under is considering the option’’ of using Dravid as opener in the first test.

It was interesting as the headlines came a day after Dravid's great resilience in making 33 not out at a strike rate of less than 30 (the match against Victoria lasted just a few overs today with Dravid still playing at 38).

Probably the paper, a tremendous source of knowledge on cricket, could have been more adventurous in saying that Dravid WILL open.

The 1st session of play yesterday at Melbourne warm up match made it more than clear that the Indian batting lineup will have Jaffer and Dravid as openers for sure, with Ganguly, Tendulkar, Laxman and Yuvraj in the middle order.

India will definitely bank on its strong middle order to click, and hope Dravid shines in his new role as opener. Hope because Dravid’s average, at 33.54 (Source ToI) is his worst in this position compared to any other he has played at. Even though he may say that he will play wherever his team wants him to be.

Sacrificing your top batsman at number three (where Dravid averages a good 57) does not really make any sense just to ensure that every middle order bat is accommodated. You can't be successful overseas without a 'comfortable' opening pair. Sehwag or Karthik deserved a look in.