Reddy and Rana’s Entry

Nitish Reddy, the star all-rounder, and pacer Harshit Rana are all set to showcase their skills on the international stage. Their inclusion marks a fresh approach to India’s squad for the series. According to reports, seasoned spinners R. Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja will sit out, making room for Washington Sundar, who has shown remarkable form recently, including taking 16 wickets in the New Zealand series.

Devdutt Padikkal Replaces Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma, who recently welcomed his second child, will miss the first Test. In his absence, Devdutt Padikkal steps in. Padikkal, who impressed during his stint with India A, is expected to bat at number three. KL Rahul will open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, setting the stage for a youthful batting lineup.

Middle Order and Bowling Strength

• Virat Kohli will retain his spot at number four, hoping to return to his vintage form.
• Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel are expected to provide stability in the middle order, with Jurel earning his spot after a stellar performance against Australia A.

In the bowling department, Team India is likely to go with a pace-heavy attack, fielding four pacers and one spinner. Jasprit Bumrah, leading the side in this Test, will spearhead the attack alongside Mohammed Siraj, Harshit Rana, and Nitish Reddy. Sundar will handle the spin duties.

India’s Mission: WTC Final Spot

For India to secure a place in the World Test Championship final, they must dominate the series and aim for a 4-0 victory. With a blend of seasoned players and debutants, Team India will look to deliver a strong performance against a formidable Australian side.

India’s Probable Playing XI

1. KL Rahul
2. Yashasvi Jaiswal
3. Devdutt Padikkal
4. Virat Kohli
5. Rishabh Pant
6. Dhruv Jurel
7. Nitish Reddy
8. Washington Sundar
9. Harshit Rana
10. Mohammed Siraj
11. Jasprit Bumrah (Captain)

The inclusion of fresh talent and the reshuffled lineup promise an exciting start to the series.

The post Nitish Reddy and Harshit Rana Set for Test Debut in India vs Australia Series appeared first on Vizag One.

Crucial Series for India

This series holds immense importance for Team India as they aim to secure a spot in the World Test Championship final. With high stakes and stiff competition against a formidable Australian side, the team is under pressure to perform. However, the pre-series injury setbacks have heightened the pressure on the selection committee and players.

Injury Updates: Key Players in Doubt

1. Shubman Gill
   • The star batsman sustained a finger injury while attempting a slip catch during a practice match against India A in Perth. Medical evaluations suggest the injury is serious, casting doubt over his participation in the opening Test. Gill’s absence would be a major blow to India’s top-order stability.
2. K.L. Rahul
   • On November 15, Rahul injured his right elbow during a practice session involving a center-wicket simulation. Experiencing severe pain, he had to abandon his batting session midway. His condition remains under observation, and his availability is uncertain.
3. Sarfaraz Khan
   • The young batsman suffered an elbow injury on November 14 during a warm-up match at the WACA. While the injury is not deemed severe, his fitness will be closely monitored ahead of the Perth Test.
4. Virat Kohli
   • Kohli gave a scare earlier when he was taken to the hospital for scans after sustaining an injury. Thankfully, the reports cleared him of any major concerns, bringing some relief to the selectors.

Rohit Sharma’s Uncertain Availability

Adding to these challenges is the uncertainty surrounding captain Rohit Sharma. If Rohit is unable to play, it would create a leadership vacuum and disrupt the batting order. K.L. Rahul might be tasked with opening in his absence, with Shubman Gill likely to take the No. 3 position—if fit.

Selection Dilemmas

The injuries have posed a significant headache for the Indian selection committee, who must now consider backup options. With such critical players under question, the team will need to rely on its depth to stand strong against a formidable Australian side.

A Ray of Hope

While these injuries have cast a shadow over Team India’s preparation, fans and selectors alike are hopeful for a swift recovery of the affected players. The team’s depth and resilience will be tested as they prepare for what promises to be an exhilarating series.

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