6 makeshift Indian openers with Test hundreds

Rohit Sharma is all set to open the innings in the upcoming Test series against South Africa. Rohit is primarily a middle-order batsman who has tasted amazing success since being promoted to open in ODIs, and the Indian think-tank now wants to try him at the top in the longer format as well.

Rohit has so far played 27 Tests as a middle-order batsman and has three hundreds to his name at an average of a touch under 40. However, with Hanuma Vihari sealing the last remaining middle-order spot for now with an impressive showing in West Indies, the only option remaining for Rohit is at the top of the order. And that too has been created due to the continuous poor form of Lokesh Rahul.

The concept of makeshift opener is not alien to Indian cricket, and the strategy peaked during the 90s when there was a severe lack of options for the team management.

In this feature, we take a look at six makeshift Indian openers who have Test hundreds to their name.

#6 Deep Dasgupta

The former wicket-keeper played eight Tests for India, and in seven of those matches he opened the innings. He scored his only Test century during the Mohali Test against England played from 3 December 2001.

After Harbhajan Singh’s five-for kept England down to 238 in their first innings, Dasgupta led India’s response with a century. He faced 254 balls and hit 15 fours in his innings, and after making exactly hundred, was clean bowled by Craig White.

Dasgupta featured in a 136-run third wicket stand with Rahul Dravid (86). Sachin Tendulkar also contributed 88 as India posted 469 in their first innings. Anil Kumble’s six-for in the second innings then bowled India to a 10-wicket triumph.

Dasgupta’s career was cut short due to his poor glove-work, which earned him the nickname ‘Drop’ Dasgupta.

Also see – World Test Championship Schedule