Rahul could have kept an attacking approach then he could have scored more: Harbhajan Singh

Former Indian bowling ace Harbhajan Singh has critiqued KL Rahul's batting approach during the first innings of the opening Test between India and Australia in Nagpur. The ex-cricketer reckoned Rahul could've scored more runs had he shown more intent at the crease during India's first innings.

KL Rahul, who opened the batting for India along with Rohit Sharma, was part of a solid opening stand with the Indian skipper. But the elegant opener threw his wicket away after playing a lazy shot at the fag end of the first day. He scored 20 runs off 71 deliveries with a solitary boundary to his name.

Despite a handy contribution from the 30-year-old, Harbhajan Singh feels that he could have made more of his start if he had shown more positive intent at the crease. The former Indian cricketer stated that it would've done a world of good to Rahul's confidence, who has looked sluggish off late.

"KL Rahul would be disappointed as he was taking more time. I believe if he could have kept an attacking approach then he could have scored more. I hope in the second innings if he gets the chance to bat, he will score some runs for his own confidence," Harbhajan Singh said while speaking on his official YouTube channel.

I doubt Australia will be able to score more than 200 in the second innings: Harbhajan

Talking about the Indian innings, the iconic cricketer hoped for a score in excess of 300 runs in the first innings, which could prove to be a tough ask for the Aussies, who would struggle to even get near the 200-run mark. He feels that the visitors will be in for a tough second innings against a world-class Indian spin attack.

"I am hoping that India scores 300-350 on this pitch. Captain Rohit Sharma started a great inning (and) is not out with more than 50 runs. If India scores anywhere near 350 then I doubt Australia will be able to score more than 200 in the second innings. The more you bowl on this pitch, the more it will spin. If it spins then Australia will surrender against India's three spinners," he added.

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