After India’s commanding 295-run victory over Australia in the first Test at Perth, cricket icon Sunil Gavaskar has shared his insights on potential changes to India’s playing XI for the pink-ball Test at Adelaide Oval, which begins on December 6. India, leading the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 1-0, will look to fine-tune their lineup for the day-night Test, focusing on both batting and bowling strategies.
Sunil Gavaskar’s potential XI for the Adelaide test
During an interaction on 7Cricket, according to Gavaskar, India’s batting unit is set for an overhaul with the return of Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill to the starting XI. These experienced players are expected to replace Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel, who featured in the first Test. Gavaskar also hinted at a potential reshuffle in the batting order to optimize the lineup’s balance.
Rohit will reclaim his position as an opener, pushing KL Rahul, who opened in Perth, down to the middle order. Gavaskar proposed that Rahul could bat at number six, strengthening the lineup against the second new ball. Meanwhile, Gill is likely to slot in at number three, providing stability at the top after his impressive form in previous series.
“I think there will be two changes for sure, with both Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill returning to the XI. 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.
Also READ: AUS vs IND: India’s record in Test cricket at the Adelaide Oval
Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja or Ravichandran Ashwin? Gavaskar’s lone spinner
In the bowling department, Gavaskar suggested replacing Washington Sundar with the seasoned all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. While Sundar played ahead of experienced spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Jadeja in Perth, the conditions at Adelaide Oval, especially under lights, may necessitate the inclusion of a bowler with Jadeja’s skillset. His ability to control the run flow, along with his batting prowess, could prove pivotal in pink-ball conditions.
“And one other change that could happen is that Jadeja comes in place of Washington Sundar,” Gavaskar concluded.
Australia vs India: Preparation for the pink-ball test
Before the second Test, India will participate in a two-day pink-ball warm-up match against the Prime Minister’s XI at Manuka Oval in Canberra. This game is vital as it provides the visitors a chance to adjust to the unique challenges of playing under lights, including handling the swinging pink ball. Given the lack of day-night Tests in 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 pacer 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.