India’s campaign in the highly anticipated Border-Gavaskar Trophy will commence without their regular captain Rohit Sharma, who will miss the first Test at Perth’s Optus Stadium starting November 22. Rohit, who stayed in India for the birth of his second child, is expected to rejoin the team ahead of the second Test, a day-night encounter at the Adelaide Oval from December 6.
The absence of Rohit Sharma, alongside the unavailability of No. 3 batter Shubman Gill due to a fractured thumb, poses significant challenges for the Indian team as they look to recover from their recent 3-0 Test series loss to New Zealand. The leadership duties for the first Test will fall to vice-captain Jasprit Bumrah, who has previously captained India in a Test match at Edgbaston during the 2021-22 tour of England.
India’s Likely XI: Reshuffling the Batting Order
The Indian think tank, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, is facing tough decisions regarding the batting lineup. KL Rahul, now fully recovered from an elbow injury scare during practice, is expected to open the innings alongside uncapped batter Abhimanyu Easwaran. This combination comes in the wake of injuries to both Rohit Sharma and Gill.
Another option for bolstering the top order is Devdutt Padikkal, who has remained with the Test squad following an impressive stint with India A in Australia. Padikkal, who debuted earlier this year, provides a left-handed option capable of countering Australia’s pace-heavy attack on Perth’s traditionally lively pitch.
Middle Order Adjustments
India’s middle order is likely to feature a mix of experience and youth. Yashasvi Jaiswal, known for his aggressive approach, is set to take on the No. 3 role, with Ishan Kishan and young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel likely to complete the lineup. The Indian management may also consider boosting their batting depth by including one of their seam-bowling allrounders at No. 8, with Nitish Kumar Reddy and Harshit Rana being prime candidates for a Test debut.
Bowling Composition: Seamers to Lead the Charge
With Jasprit Bumrah at the helm, India’s pace attack will spearhead their efforts on Perth’s fast, bouncy wicket. Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna are expected to provide support, offering pace and control. Spin duties will likely be handled by Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin, whose experience will be critical on a surface that traditionally favors seam but can offer assistance to spinners later in the game.
India’s Preparations at the WACA
The Indian squad has been training extensively at the WACA, acclimating to Australian conditions. This preparation has been vital as the team grapples with a depleted batting lineup and the weight of expectations following their historic whitewash against New Zealand. The first overseas series under Gambhir’s coaching staff, which includes Morne Morkel, Abhishek Nayar, and Ryan ten Doeschate, will test the team’s resilience and adaptability.
Second Test Plans: Rohit Sharma’s Return and Strategic Reassessment
Rohit Sharma’s anticipated return for the Adelaide Test provides a glimmer of hope. Before the second Test, Rohit Sharma is slated to participate in a two-day pink-ball warm-up match against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI starting November 30. His availability will allow the team to reassess its strategy and strengthen the lineup as they aim for a strong comeback in the series.
India’s Road Ahead: Adapting to Adversity
The Border-Gavaskar Trophy has historically delivered intense battles, and this year promises no less. India’s ability to adapt to adversity and execute strategic plans will be crucial in their quest to regain dominance in Test cricket. The opening Test in Perth will set the tone for a series that holds high stakes for both teams, with India eager to overcome a challenging start.
