'In intra-squad match, he scored an 80 plus score, he is in good rhythm': Laxman picks India's opening duo for WTC final

Former India batsman VVS Laxman said that the youngster is looking in good touch currently and should continue to open the innings with senior Rohit Sharma in order to maintain continuity.

Ahead of the commencement of the World Test Championship (WTC) final between Virat Kohli-led India and Kane Williamson's New Zealand, batting great VVS Laxman shared his thoughts on the Indian team's opening pair in Southampton. And one of the two names includes Shubman Gill and not Mayank Agarwal.

File image of former India batsman VVS Laxman. (Getty Images)

While speaking at a virtual press conference organized by Star Sports, Laxman remarked that youngster Gill, who is looking in good touch currently, should continue to open the innings with senior Rohit Sharma in order to maintain continuity, which will only prove to be beneficial to the team.

"Well, I would like continuity. I think Shubman Gill is a wonderful talent, he has shown what he is capable of doing under pressure," Laxman said.

Laxman further stated that Gill will head into the summit on the back of a fruitful outing during their intra-squad game, hence making him his first-choice opener.

Right-hander Laxman commented that India is fortunate to have a talented batsman in Mayank Agarwal on the bench.

"India is fortunate to have Mayank Agarwal again on the bench, who also has done well in Test match cricket, but at the moment, I would back Shubman Gill to open with Rohit in this Test match," added the 46-year-old Hyderabad-born batsman.

The grand finale, which will bring down the curtains on a two-year-long tournament, will be played at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. The match is slated to begin on June 18.