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Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024
India’s national cricket team arrives in Australia this week for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy with more uncertainties than clarity, following a crushing 0-3 loss to New Zealand—their first home series defeat in 12 years.
The series, which kicks off on November 22 in Perth, poses several challenges for India. The absence of captain Rohit Sharma, who is away due to the birth of his second child, along with Shubman Gill’s thumb injury, has further disrupted their preparations.
With the World Test Championship final in the balance, India not only needs to perform exceptionally well but also rely on favorable outcomes from other teams.
Australian conditions are notoriously difficult for visiting teams, and this tour becomes even more daunting due to India’s recent poor form.
India Squad for Border Gavaskar Trophy 2024-
Rohit Sharma (C), Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (Wk), Sarfaraz Khan, Virat Kohli, Prasidh Krishna, Ravichandran Ashwin, Rishabh Pant (Wk), KL Rahul, Harshit Rana, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Mohammed Siraj, Washington Sundar, Devdutt Padikkal.
Expected Playing XI-
Openers- Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul.
KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal are expected to open the batting in the first Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.
With regular captain Rohit Sharma unavailable and Shubman Gill out due to a thumb injury, the pair will face significant pressure. The seasoned Rahul, alongside the young Jaiswal, will need to tackle Australia’s strong pace attack and set the stage for India in the series opener.
Middle Order- Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (W), Dhruv Jurel, Ravichandra Ashwin and Nitish Kumar Reddy.
There is a possibility that Devdutt Padikkal, who impressed on the A tour of Australia, may bat at No. 3, while seasoned campaigner Virat Kohli, who batted at No. 3 in the recent match against New Zealand, could move to No. 4.
Rishabh Pant will keep wickets and bat at No. 5. Dhruv Jurel, who featured in the second unofficial Test for the A team, might be included as a specialist batsman.
Among the all-rounders, Ravichandran Ashwin is expected to play, especially with the number of left-handers in the Australian lineup, while debutant Nitish Kumar Reddy is anticipated to bring pace to both the bowling attack and the batting order.
Lower Order- Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana and Jasprit Bumrah.
The Indian bowling attack for the Perth Test is likely to include Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Jasprit Bumrah. These three will lead the pace attack, with Siraj and Bumrah bringing their experience and proven skills. Harshit Rana is set to make his debut after a standout performance in an Intra-Squad match in Perth.
Rana’s raw pace and aggressive style will be crucial, adding depth to the Indian pace attack. The trio will look to exploit the conditions at Optus Stadium, challenging Australia’s strong batting lineup with their pace and precision, aiming to set the tone early in the series.
Bench- Rohit Sharma, Shubman Gill, Sarfaraz Khan, Prasidh Krishna, Abhimanyu Easwaran and Washington Sundar.
Rohit Sharma’s absence and Shubman Gill’s injury have left gaps in the Indian lineup, opening the door for other players to potentially step into the Playing XI. Sarfaraz Khan, known for his solid batting performances in domestic cricket, could be called up to strengthen the middle order. Prasidh Krishna, with his pace and bounce, may be considered for a spot in the bowling attack.
Abhimanyu Easwaran, a reliable opener, might be included if the team opts for more stability at the top. Washington Sundar, an all-rounder, could bring valuable depth to both the batting and bowling departments.
Also Read- Australia’s Playing XI for the first test: https://cricinside365.com/australia-playing-xi-border-gavaskar-trophy-2024/
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