As India prepare to square off against South Africa in longer format of game, Men in Blue have t figured out a potential and consistent number four batsman for limited-overs formats. Rishabh Pant, who was named as India's number four batsman after World Cup, has failed to fire for team, extending India's woes in finding ideal middle-order batsman. With just under a year left for World T20 in Australia, India is struggling to find a strong number four batsman. Ambati Rayudu, who was previously touted by skipper Virat Kohli as best middle-order batsman for team, has lesser chances of making a comeback to national side. Hence, onus is on a youngster who has a good and consistent record while playing in middle-order. 

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Harbhajan Singh's advice to Suryakumar Yadav

Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh voiced his opinion on domestic player Suryakumar Yadav being igred by national selectors and threw his weight behind middle-order batsman. Suryakumar Yadav, who plays for Mumbai in domestic league and for Mumbai Indians in Indian Premier League, has amassed 1544 runs from 85 matches in IPL and has played many crucial kcks for his side. In a Vijay Hazare Trophy game, Suryakumar Yadav scored 81 runs in 31 balls, smashing eight fours and six sixes en route to his magnificent kck. Harbhajan Singh took to Twitter to question why Suryakumar Yadav was t picked for national side despite being consistent. former Indian cricketer encourd Suryakumar Yadav to work harder and that he would eventually be selected for national side. Read Harbhajan Singh's tweet here:

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Rishabh Pant's performances

Rishabh Pant, 21-year-old batsman, is currently India's go-to wicket-keeper and number four batsman. Often touted as MS Dhoni's successor, Pant has big shoes to fill as his batting needs to be consistent for him to maintain a place in playing XI. Pant's career in limited-overs cricket has been subject to a lot of criticism as explosive left-hander has t been able to contribute much to Indian team. It is being pointed out that Rishabh Pant replacing a legend like MS Dhoni may be creating a lot of pressure on 21-year-old's mind. His shot selection and alleged irresponsibility have been criticized by experts and fans alike. Earlier, India's coach, Ravi Shastri, has also said that Pant's careless shot selection would be penalized and his talent would t bar him from being reprimanded. Gautam Gambhir came out in Pant's support and said that more people need to make Pant feel 'wanted' in team. 

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