After a crushing 10-wicket loss in the Adelaide Test, Team India is preparing for the upcoming third Test at Gabba in Brisbane. With the series tied at 1-1, the stakes are high for both India and Australia to take the lead. Following the disappointing performance in Adelaide, Captain Rohit Sharma and the team management may consider some significant changes in the playing XI to bounce back strongly.
Harshit Rana Likely to Be Dropped
Young pacer Harshit Rana, who made his international debut in the Perth Test, might face exclusion in Brisbane. While Rana impressed with four wickets in Perth, his performance in Adelaide was far from effective. Bowling 16 overs without a wicket and conceding runs at an economy of 5.38 put him under scrutiny.
Captain Rohit Sharma previously defended Rana, citing his inexperience, but with the Gabba Test being crucial, a more experienced bowler could replace him. Options like Akash Deep or Prasidh Krishna are strong contenders to join the pace attack, providing depth and consistency.
Washington Sundar May Replace Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin, a senior off-spinner, could also be dropped after his lackluster performance in Adelaide. Ashwin managed just one wicket and struggled with the bat in both innings, raising concerns about his form.
Washington Sundar, who impressed in the Perth Test with both bat and ball, could make his way back into the squad. Sundar’s ability to contribute in all departments makes him a strong candidate for inclusion, especially in conditions that demand adaptability.
Rohit Sharma to Open, KL Rahul Moves to Middle Order
One of the most significant potential changes involves the batting order. Rohit Sharma, who returned to the team in Adelaide after missing the Perth Test due to personal reasons, batted in the middle order but failed to make an impact.
On the other hand, KL Rahul, who opened alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal in both previous Tests, had a mixed outing. While Rahul scored a commendable 77 in Perth, he struggled in Adelaide, raising questions about his consistency as an opener.
Reports suggest that Rohit Sharma might take up the opening slot alongside Jaiswal, pushing Rahul to the middle order. This adjustment aims to bolster both the opening and middle-order stability, ensuring a more balanced lineup against Australia’s strong bowling attack.
Team India’s Strategy for Gabba
The Gabba pitch is traditionally known for its pace and bounce, favoring fast bowlers. Team India’s think-tank will likely prioritize bowlers who can exploit these conditions. Moreover, batsmen with strong technique and the ability to counter Australia’s potent bowling unit will be crucial.
India’s approach will also involve learning from the mistakes made in Adelaide, particularly addressing the batting collapses and maintaining discipline in the bowling attack.
What Lies Ahead for India?
With high expectations and a fiercely competitive Australian side, Team India will need to bring their A-game to Brisbane. The Gabba Test could potentially define the series, making it imperative for the Indian team to find the right combination and deliver under pressure.
