India they will aim to continue their leadership Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 as they encountered Australia in the year Pink ball Test in Adelaide starting December 6. With Rohit Sharma Returning to lead the team after missing the first Test, significant changes to the batting order could be on the cards. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal‘s magnificent opening partnership in Perth added complexity to the team selection. Rohit’s recent form and batting position are the subject of debate and the Indian team management is facing a crucial decision.
Record breaking partnership of KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal
Rahul and Jaiswal created history with their opening stand of 201 in the first Test, the highest by an Indian pair in Australia. Rahul’s calm and composed approach complemented Jaiswal’s aggressive style and formed the perfect partnership to neutralize the Australian pacers. Both batsmen handled the new ball deftly, showing patience and fortitude on a difficult Perth wicket.
Jaiswal’s stunning 161-run knock showed his ability to dominate even under pressure, while Rahul added a steady 77. Their partnership was instrumental in India’s 295-run victory. With another solid opening stand of 75 runs in a practice match against the Australian Prime Minister’s XI, they strengthened their claim to stay out of the top flight.
Rohit Sharma’s experience and role for the Indian team
Rohit’s inclusion brings immense value to the Indian line-up, especially in the absence of experienced middle-order stalwarts Cheteshwar Pujara. Despite his struggles as an opener in recent Tests, Rohit excelled in the middle-order and averaged 54.57 at No. 6 with three centuries. His adaptability and leadership skills make him an important cog in the Indian ranks. Rohit’s move to the middle order can provide stability and an experienced hand against Australia’s lethal bowling attack in pink-ball conditions. His contributions as a middle-order batsman in Australia further strengthen his case for a strategic change in the batting order.
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India’s opening combination for the pink ball test against Australia
- Form and consistency in recent matches
Rohit’s recent performances in Test cricket have raised concerns about his ability to provide consistent starts at the top. In his last six Test innings, Rohit has amassed just 91 runs, including just one half-century, indicating a lack of rhythm. In contrast, KL Rahul showed his resilience and adaptability under pressure in the first Test in Perth. His well-executed 77 highlighted his form, along with excellent shot selection and temperament against a strong Australian temperamental attack. Rahul’s consistency in starts and anchor shots makes him a reliable key for the pink ball Test. - Current speed in opening practices and partnerships
While there’s no denying Rohit’s experience as a switch between formats – one of the most successful batsmen in recent years – it’s KL Rahul who is currently holding the momentum. A record-breaking 201-run stand between Rahul and Jaiswal in the first Test bolstered India’s top order. Characterized by a mutual understanding and complementary playing styles, this partnership has shown an ability to neutralize Australia’s bowlers early on. Disrupting this combination by reintroducing Rohit at the top could upset the rhythm and balance established in the series opener. - Adaptation to different roles and conditions
Rohit’s career stats reflect his versatility, especially in the middle order where he scored an impressive 54.57 in Tests. His experience in batting lower down the order, coupled with his ability to play counter-attacking cricket, could be a decisive factor in the unique conditions of a pink-ball Test. Rohit’s technique and composure against the swinging ball can provide much-needed stability and depth to India’s middle order. On the other hand, Rahul has proved his ability to handle the new ball effectively, especially in the tough overseas conditions, ensuring India got off to a strong start. Keeping Rahul at the top would provide continuity in the team’s strategy while also increasing Rohit’s utility in the middle order.
