As India prepares for the much-awaited Pink Ball Test against Australia starting on December 6, 2024, at the Adelaide Oval, discussions around potential changes to the playing XI are heating up. Following a convincing victory in the first Test, India are likely to make strategic adjustments to enhance their chances of success in this challenging format.
The Rohit Sharma-led Indian side secured a notable victory against the Prime Minister’s XI in the recently concluded warm-up match, providing a significant confidence boost to them ahead of the Day-Night Test in Adelaide.
Here are three changes that Indian could be made in their playing XI:
1. Rohit Sharma to bat in the middle order
Captain Rohit Sharma, who missed the first Test due to the birth of his child, is set to lead the Indian team in the Adelaide Test. However, instead of opening, he may bat in the middle order, potentially at number 5. This decision comes after Rohit demoted himself during a recent warm-up match, allowing KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal to continue their successful opening partnership. Rohit will replace Dhruv Jurel, who performed brilliantly in the practice-games against Australia A but couldn’t add much runs to Team India’s total in the opening Test at Perth. Meanwhile, Rohit’s experience in the middle order could provide stability against Australia’s potent bowling attack, particularly under pink-ball conditions where batting can be tricky.
Also READ: AUS vs IND – Rohit Sharma’s record in Test cricket on Australian soil
2. Shubman Gill takes over his usual no. 3 position
With Rohit likely moving down the order, Shubman Gill is set to return from injury and slot into the crucial No. 3 position. Gill’s ability to play long innings and his recent form make him an ideal candidate for this role. He will replace Devdutt Padikkal, who struggled in his Perth Test, thereby reinforcing India’s batting lineup against a formidable Australian bowling attack.
3. Ravindra Jadeja for Washington Sundar
Another anticipated change is the inclusion of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja in place of Washington Sundar. Jadeja’s exceptional fielding, coupled with his experience and ability to contribute with both bat and ball, makes him a valuable asset in pink-ball Tests where conditions may favour spinners later in the match. His return would also bolster India’s spin options alongside Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj in the pace department.