The second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 between Australia and India is set to be a spectacle, with excitement reaching a fever pitch ahead of the Pink Ball Test at the Adelaide Oval. India enters the match on a high note after a dominant win in Perth, carrying momentum and confidence as they aim to consolidate their lead in the series. However, the hosts, stung by their loss, are looking for redemption and are eager to capitalize on their unbeaten Pink Ball Test record at Adelaide.
Adelaide has long been a fortress for the Australians in day-night Tests. The pink ball’s unique challenges, coupled with the conditions under lights, have historically played to their strengths. But India, known for rewriting history, will look to disrupt this streak and script another memorable chapter in their Test cricket journey.
India’s bowling unit under the spotlight
The focus will inevitably shift to India’s bowling attack, which will play a crucial role in exploiting the nuances of the pink ball. Led by the ever-reliable Jasprit Bumrah, India’s bowlers have the potential to dismantle the Australian batting lineup once again. Bumrah’s mastery of swing and seam, especially under lights, makes him a vital cog in India’s plans.
However, selecting the ideal bowling combination will be a pivotal decision for the Indian think tank. With Mohammed Siraj likely to retain his spot, the choice between Akash Deep and Harshit Rana for the final seamer’s role has become a point of discussion. Both young pacers have shown promise, but the unique demands of the pink-ball Test could tilt the scales in favor of one over the other.
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Ravi Shastri names his choice between Akash Deep and Harshit Rana
Former India coach Ravi Shastri highlighted the unique nature of pink-ball cricket while explaining his preference for Akash over Harshit. According to Shastri, the pink ball, with its extra lacquer, tends to retain hardness for a longer duration, allowing for greater seam movement and swing under the lights. These conditions, Shastri argued, align well with Akash’s skill set, making him a strong candidate for the playing XI in the Adelaide Test. Shastri’s comments reflect his emphasis on exploiting specific match conditions to gain a competitive edge, particularly in the critical middle and late phases of the game.
“The only thing that you must remember, is this is a pink-ball Test. I know Harshit Rana did very well in that Test match, but the pink ball with extra lacquer, it’s a little harder and might seam around a bit and swing. (That’s) where I think Akash Deep should be in the mix,” said Shastri in a chat at ICC Review.
Assessing conditions before finalizing the XI
Shastri also emphasized the importance of assessing the pitch and ground conditions before making a final selection. He pointed out that factors such as the potential for extra bounce and pace could influence the decision between Akash and Harshit.
“Now when you reach the ground, you see the conditions, [whether] you opt for extra bounce and pace, that’s your choice. But I’d definitely keep him (Akash Deep) in that 12 and keep an eye on him,” Shastri added.