As India gears up for the decisive third Test against Australia at the Gabba in Brisbane, veteran batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has voiced his opinion on potential changes to the playing XI. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series tied at 1-1, the stakes are incredibly high, and Pujara believes that a strategic alteration could be the key to securing a crucial victory.
SOURCE : ZEE
In an interview with Star Sports, Pujara suggested that Washington Sundar should replace Ravichandran Ashwin in the lineup. Pujara emphasized that the batting lineup needs strengthening, and Sundar’s all-round abilities could provide the necessary balance2. Sundar had an impressive performance in the first Test in Perth, contributing both with the bat and ball. However, he was excluded from the second Test in Adelaide, with Ashwin taking his place2. Ashwin’s limited impact in the second match has raised questions about his inclusion in the upcoming game.
Source:- bbc news
Pujara also defended Harshit Rana, who had a tough outing in Adelaide but performed exceptionally well in the first Test. Despite Rana’s struggles in the second match, Pujara believes that dropping him would negatively affect team morale2. “He is a good bowler. You cannot drop him just because one match went bad. Probably the only change for me would be Sundar for Ashwin if the team feels the batting lineup needs strengthening,” Pujara stated2.
The series has been a rollercoaster so far, with India winning the first Test in Perth by a massive 295-run margin but suffering a ten-wicket defeat in the second Test in Adelaide. The team management now faces a challenging decision regarding the composition of the playing XI2. India’s World Test Championship final aspirations hang in the balance, and a victory in Brisbane is crucial for their qualification.
Pujara’s insights have sparked a debate among cricket enthusiasts and experts, with some agreeing with his assessment and others advocating for continuity with Ashwin. The team management will need to carefully weigh their options and make a decision that best serves the team’s interests.
As the match approaches, fans eagerly await the announcement of the final playing XI and hope for a strong performance from the Indian team. The Brisbane Test promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams vying for supremacy in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
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