AUS vs IND: India’s Probable XI for the 1st Test
India is all set to make a comeback in the longest format of the game after a nine-month-long hiatus as they face Australia at Adelaide in the opening Test of the iconic Border-Gavaskar trophy. The first game of the four-match series is a pink-ball affair and will be played as a part of the ICC World Test Championship. Let’s take a look at the probable eleven of India for the much-anticipated clash –
Openers: Mayank Agarwal & Shubman Gill
In Rohit Sharma’s absence, the opening duties are likely to rely upon Mayank Agarwal and Shubman Gill. Gill has given some promising performances in the warmup games and India are likely to go forward with the youngster. He has looked solid in his appearances thus far and looks set for the Test debut.
Agarwal couldn’t believe how well he hit that! The Australia A plan works.
Watch #AUSAvIND live: https://t.co/7h4rdQDzHV pic.twitter.com/cQc5XB4X6J
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 12, 2020
Middle Order: Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane
India boast a sturdy middle-order with the likes of Chetshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, and Ajinkya Rahane. While Rahane has made his case strong after racking up a solid century in the practice game, both Pujara and Kohli are default choices given their record Down Under. Pujara was the difference between the two teams in the last tour as he amassed 521 runs, including 3 tons, whereas skipper Kohli has always enjoyed his time at Adelaide.
All-rounder and Wicketkeeper: Hanuma Vihari and Wriddhiman Saha
That’s Saha at mid wicket!
What a catch by the keeper ?
Watch #AUSAvIND live: https://t.co/7h4rdQDzHV pic.twitter.com/8Msx6nIqlS
— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 11, 2020
Hanuma Vihari has gradually made his spot in the team through his impressive performances in the nine Tests he has played so far. His century in the practice game is a clear indicator of his good form. The keeper’s spot has two contenders in Pant and Saha fighting it out for it. While Pant, too, registered a century in the second practice game, Saha might get a nod ahead of him given Pant’s inconsistent run of form. Furthermore, there’s no doubt that Saha is rated highly for his wicketkeeping skills.
Bowlers: Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah
The Indian team will miss the services of their mainstay, Ishant Sharma, although Mohammad Shami and Jasprit Bumrah will be present to trouble the Aussies with the pink ball. In Sharma’s absence, the slot for the third pacer will be hanging between Navdeep Saini and Umesh Yadav. Although, India might go ahead with Umesh Yadav for the consistency he has exhibited of late while playing for India. In Ravindra Jadeja’s absence due to injury, Ravi Ashwin will lead the spin column.
