After Indiacommanding 295 run victory over Australia in the first Test in Perth, a cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar shared his insights on possible changes to the XI that India is playing for pink-ball Test at Adelaide Ovalwhich starts on December 6th. India, who lead the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 1-0, will look to improve their line-up for the Day-night Test, focusing on both batting and bowling strategies.
Sunil Gavaskar’s probable XI for the Adelaide Test
During an interaction on 7Cricket, according to Gavaskar, India’s batting unit is slated for an overhaul upon his return Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill in the starting lineup. These experienced players are expected to be replaced Devdutt Padikkal and Drib Yurelwho appeared in the first Test. Gavaskar also hinted at a possible reshuffle in the batting order to optimize the balance of the lineup.
Rohit will reclaim his place as an opener, pressing on KL Rahulwhich opened in Perth, up to the middle class. Gavaskar suggested that Rahul could bat at number six, strengthening the line-up against the second new ball. Meanwhile, Gill is likely to find himself at number three, providing stability at the top after his impressive form in previous series.
“I think there will definitely be two changes, with Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill returning to the line-up. My feeling is that the batting order will change. Rohit Sharma will replace Rahul, Shubman Gill will bat at three, Padikkal and Jurel will be dropped and Rahul will move to six. Gavaskar said.
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Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja or Ravichandran Ashwin? Gavaskar’s lone spinner
In the bowling department, Gavaskar suggested the replacement Washington Sudar with the experienced all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. While Sundar was playing in front of experienced spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Jadeja in Perth, the conditions at Adelaide Oval, especially under the lights, may require the inclusion of a bowler of Jadeja’s ability. His ability to control the flow of runs, along with his batting ability, could prove decisive in pink-ball conditions.
“And another change that could happen is Jadeja coming in for Washington Sundar.” Gavaskar concluded.
Australia vs India: Pink ball test build-up
Before the second Test, India will participate in a two-day pink-ball warm-up match against the Prime Minister’s XI at the Manuka Oval in Canberra. This game is vital as it provides visitors with the opportunity to adapt to the unique challenges of playing under the lights, including handling the floating pink ball. Given the lack of day-night Tests on India’s domestic circuit, the warm-up match will be their only preparation ahead of the Adelaide clash.
Australia, on the other hand, faces a significant blow as a pacemaker Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the Adelaide Test due to a side strain. Hazlewood’s absence could weaken Australia’s bowling attack, especially in conditions that favor disciplined seam bowling. This development offers India an opportunity to capitalize and extend their lead in the series.
