India and Australia are gearing up for the much anticipated third Test match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25. Scheduled to take place at the iconic Gabba stadium in Brisbane, the match will run from December 14 to 18. With the series poised at 1-1 after two enthralling contests, this match holds immense significance, not just for the series win but also for qualification to the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 final. Both teams have much to prove, and fans expect an ent?hralling battle between two cricketing giants.

India’s defeat in the Adelaide Test against Australia

Australia made a strong statement in the second Test at Adelaide, coming back from a 295-run loss in the first Test at Perth to claim a comprehensive 10-wicket victory. The win was powered by stellar performances from key Australian players. Mitchell Starc was the standout bowler, taking 8 wickets across the match, while Pat Cummins, the Austr?alian captain, contributed signifi??cantly with 7 wickets of his own.

The batting side was led by Travis Head, who played an extraordinary innings, scoring 140 runs off 141 balls in the first innings, and Marnus Labuschagne, who added a solid 64 runs off 126 balls. Thi?s well-rounded effort saw Australia level the series and set the stage for an intense clash in Brisbane.

India, on the other hand, had a mixed performance in the first two Tests. While they showed promise in the opening match at Perth, which they won by a commanding 295-run margin, their batting lineup struggled to replicate that form in Adelaide. The team’s inability to post competitive totals, combined with Australia’s strong bowling attack, saw them suffer a resounding defeat.

Cheteshwar Pujara’s insights for the Brisbane Test: A potential change for India

Cheteshwar Pujara, the seasoned Indian batter turned commentator, has weighed in on the potential changes to the Indian side for the third Test. Speaking on the topic, Pujara emphasized that, in his opinion, the only change that might be necessary would involve bringing in Washington Sundar in place of Ravichandran Ashwin. Pujara, known for his thoughtful analysis, shared his views during an interview on Star?? Sports.

“I feel the only change might happen. Since the batting wasn’t good, Washington Sundar can come in place of R Ashwin. Should someone come in place of Harshit Rana? In my opinion – no. You backed him and he performed well in the first match. The second match was bad for him,” said Pujara.

Also READ: AUS vs IND:?? Should India drop Harshit Rana for the third Test against Australia?

The cricketer-turned-commentator stated that Harshit Rana shouldn’t be dropped for one poor performance, highlighting his value as a bowler. He emphasized the need for team support to maintain his confidence. The only potential change could be replacing Ashwin with Sundar to strengthen the batting lineup.

“However, the team will have to support him. He is a good bowler. You cannot drop him just because one match went bad. We will have to see what the team management thinks but probably only change for me – if they feel the batting lineup needs strengthening, Washington can play for Ashwin,” Pujara added.

Sundar had shown his value as an all-rounder in the first Test in Perth, contributing?? effectively both with the ball and the bat. In the first innings, Sundar managed to take two crucial wickets, while in the second innings, he made a valuable contribution of 29 runs, helping India secure a 295-run win. Despite this performance, Sundar was replaced by Ashwin in the Adelaide Test, a move that did not pay off as India suffered a heavy loss.

Harshit Rana: A retained option?

One of the key points raised by Pujara is the matter of Rana, who had mixed performances in the first two Tests. Rana, who made his debut in the series, showcased promising signs in Perth with figures of 3/48 in the first innings and a total of four wickets across the match. However, he had an indifferent outing in Adelaide, ??failing to take any wickets and conceding runs at a high rate. Despite this, Pujara stands firm on his belief that Rana should not be dropped:

“Rana picked up four wickets, including impressive figures of 3/48 in the first innings, in the first Test in Perth. However, he was wicketless in Adelaide and proved quite expensive apart from bagging a pair with the bat. You backed him and he performed well in the first match. The second match was bad for him. The team will have to support him. He is a good bowler. You cannot drop him just because one match went bad,” Pujara concluded.

Also READ: Kapil Dev makes a bold remark on Rohit Sharma’s ca??ptaincy amid criticism following India’s Adelaide Test loss

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India are set to take on Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, starting Decemb??er 6 at the Adelaide Oval. With momentum firmly on their sid?e after a dominant 295-run victory in the first Test in Perth, India looks poised to extend their lead in the five-match series.

What should be India’s bowling combination for the Pink-Ball Test against Australia?

As the team management deliberates over the playing XI for the pink-ball Test, veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara has called for consistency in the bowling attack that excelled in Perth. India’s pace trio of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Harshit Rana, complemented by spin-bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar, dismantled the? Australian batting lineup in a clinical performan??ce.

“There’s no doubt about it. This combination has delivered results,” Pujara said during an interview with Star Sports. “Bumrah was exceptional, Siraj bowled with great control, and Harshit impressed despite it being his debut. He pitched the ball up and maintained discipline, which is crucial in Australian conditions.”

“In Australia, it’s easy for bowlers to get carried away with the extra pace and bounce”: Cheteshwar Pujara

Rana, who debuted in Perth, earned special praise from Pujara for his maturity under pressure. “In Australia, it’s easy for bowlers to get carried away with the extra pace and bounce, but Rana stayed focused, consistently targeting the right lengths and the top of the off-stump. That kind of temperament is invaluable, and I believe we should stick with him,” Pujara added.

Also READ: AUS vs IND – Harbhajan Singh picks the ideal batting position of captain Rohit Sharma for the Pink Ball Test

The right-handed batter also highlighted the importance of Sundar in the playing XI, emphasizing his ability to contribute with both bat and ball. “Washi didn’t start his spell on the best note but adapted quickly and picked up a couple of crucial wickets. His variations in pace were impressive. Additionally, his batting depth is invaluable, especially if we lose early wickets,” Pujara said.

Sundar proved his worth in the first Test, delivering economical spells and picking up two key wickets in the second innings. His steady performance with the ball and ability to anchor the lower order make him a vital asset for th?e team.

The upcoming second Test, a day-night affair, presents unique challenges, especially with the pin?k ball under lights. Both teams will need to adjust their strategies accordingly. With Australia eager to bounce back and India riding high on confidence, an intriguing contest awaits at the picturesque Adelaide Oval.

Also READ: Dhruv Jurel OUT, Rohit Sharma IN! 3 changes India ca?n make in their playing XI for the Pink Ball Test against Australia

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Team India head into the Pink Ball Test in Adelaide brimming with confidence after their commanding win in Perth. The victory, marked by a clinical all-round performance, has provided the team with much-needed momentum as they gear up for the second Test against Australia. While India’s bowling attack pe??rformed exceptionally in Perth, the batting unit showcased depth and resilience, setting the stage for strategic adjustments to suit the challenging conditions under lights in ??Adelaide.

Where should KL Rahul bat? Cheteshwar Pujara answers

A key topic of discussion in the Indian lineup is KL Rahul’s batting position. In the absence of regular skipper Rohit Sharma, Rahul opened the innings in Perth and left a strong impression wi??th his composed knock on a challenging pitch. His performance provided India with a solid start and showcased his excepti??onal skills.

With Rohit now rejoining the squad to lead the visitors in the second Test, the question arises: where should Rahul slot into the batting order? Sharing his thoughts on the matter, senior Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara offer?ed two perspectives. Pujara’s first suggestion was to let Rahul continue opening the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, while Rohit moves dow?n to bat at No. 3.

“For some reason, if we can carry on with the same batting order, like KL and Yashasvi to open, Rohit could come in at three, and Shubman could come in at five,” Pujara said in a conversation with ESPNcricinfo.

Alternatively, Pujara proposed ?that if Rohit opts to open, Rahul should take the No. 3 position, as his batting style is best suited for the top order and should not be pushed further ?down.

“If Rohit wants to open, KL should bat at No. 3. Nothing later than that. He has to bat top of the order, because it suits his game really well. I hope we don’t tinker around with that,” added Pujara.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Here’s how India have flared ?in pink-ball Tests

Pujara discusses batting order of Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant

Pujara also addressed the conundrum of Shubman Gill‘s ideal position. He recommended slotting Gill at No. 5, citing his ability to handle different game situations.

“Ideally No. 5. Even if we lose two wickets early, he can negotiate the new ball. But if he comes in after 25 or 30 overs, he can play his natural game,” observed Pujara.

This adjustment would likely push Rishabh Pant, who batted at No. 5 in Perth, down to No. 6. Pujara explained the tactical move, stating, “Gill walking in earlier saves Rishabh Pant for the old ball. [Pant] doesn’t have to face the new ball. I wouldn’t want him to bat when the ball is hard and new.”

Such a batting shuffle would mean Devdutt Padikkal and Dhruv Jurel could make way for more ex??perienced players in the lineup, enhancing India’s depth in batting.

Also READ: Australia ??Prime Minister’s XI vs India 20??24: Date, Match Time, Squads, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

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Team India‘s cricketing journey in Australia has been a story of gradual evolution, with the team facing early challenges but gradually growing in stature on Australian soil. While the early years were dominated by Australian supremacy, especially with their formidable pace attacks and the aura of players like Sir Donald Bradman, India’s competitiveness began to show in the 1980s and 90s. Over the years, the Indian team has transformed, and with each visit to Australia, they have shed their underdog status. The Indian team’s success in Australia now represents one of the most compelling chapters in the history of Test cricket.

From historic first wins to unforgettable series victories, India’s achievements in Australia have become a point of pride. The development of a strong bowling unit, the rise of players who thrive in challenging conditions, and the strategic leadership have all contributed to India’s growing success in the land of the Kangaroos. While the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, India’s consistent progress on Australian soil showcases their rise as a major force in world cricket.

Now, let’s explore how the Indian team has navigated through these challenges and emerged stronger over time.

India’s flare in Australia in Test cricket

The early struggles

India’s initial encounters in Australia were marked by considerable struggles. Their debut Test series in 1947-48 saw a comprehensive 4-0 defeat, with the Indian team failing to make an impact against a dominant Australian side. This early period in Indian Test cricket was characterized by difficulties adapting to Australia’s fast and bouncy pitches, as well as an inability to counter the aggressive Australian cricketing mindset.

Throughout the 1950s and 60s, India failed to register any significant victories, and by the 1970s, it was evident that the Indian team still lacked the firepower to compete with Australia’s cricketing giants. The absence of a world-class fast-bowling attack and a dependence on spin bowling in conditions that favored pace bowlers made India’s task even harder. The team had to rely on individual brilliance, but a collective effort was often missing.

Building momentum from the 1980s era

The early 1980s marked a turning point for India in Australia. The 1980-81 series saw India secure their first Test win in Australia, although it was not part of a series victory. Gundappa Viswanath‘s fighting ton and Kapil Dev‘s incredible spell of fast bowling, where he led India to a thrilling win in Melbourne, gave the team and their supporters a glimpse of India’s potential.

In the 1985-86 series, India managed to draw the series 0-0, a significant improvement given the tough Australian conditions. Though they couldn’t win, the Indian team displayed resilience and competitive spirit, particularly through the efforts of their batters and Kapil’s leadership. The 1991-92 series was another tough battle, where despite individual contributions, India lost the series 4-0. However, the team’s performance continued to evolve, and the emergence of players like Mohammad Azharuddin and Sachin Tendulkar showcased India’s growing potential.

The 1999-2000 series, although a 3-0 loss, saw the rise of players like Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid, whose resilience would later contribute significantly to India’s success in Australia. These series laid the foundation for the eventual triumphs that would come in the new millennium.

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The golden period under Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid

India’s success in Australia during the early 2000s laid the foundation for their future victories. Under the leadership of Ganguly, India started to play with a sense of confidence and aggression. The 2003-04 series was significant because it showcased the Indian team’s ability to compete on Australian soil, with remarkable batting performances, particularly from Dravid, who ended the series as the highest run-scorer.

India drew the series 1-1, with a standout performance from Dravid, who scored centuries in Adelaide and Melbourne. This was one of the first series where India’s team showed a genuine competitiveness, especially with the rise of the young players like Virender Sehwag, and a more balanced a?pproach to fas?t and spin bowling.

The 2007-08 series, though a difficult one for India with the controversies surrounding the Sydney Test, also witnessed Indian players like Anil Kumble and Tendulkar shining. Although India didn’t win the series, it was clear that the team was now a formidable opponent. The spirit displayed in these years set the stage for the monumental Test victories that would follow in the next decade.

The beginning of India’s transformation under Virat Kohli

The 2010s were a transformative period for India’s Test cricket team in Australia. The journey, however, wasn’t without its struggles. In the 2011/12 series, India faced a crushing 4-0 defeat, where Australia dominated the entire series. Despite individual performances, India struggled to adapt to the hostile Australian conditions, particularly against the pace attack and the Australian batting line-up. Similarly, in the 2014/15 series, India again lost 2-0, as Australia’s fast bowlers and a resurgent Michael Clarke led the charge. Despite some brave efforts, especially by Virat Kohli, who scored heavily, India fell short in both series, highlighting the gaps in their ability to consistently challenge Australia in their own backyard?.

However, the tide began to turn in the 2018-19 series, where India achieved their first-ever Test series win in Australia, defeating the hosts 2-1. Kohli’s leadership, combined with remarkable batting performances by Cheteshwar Pujara and outstanding fast bowling from Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, and Ishant Sharma, led to this historic success. This victory marked a significant turning point, demonstrating India’s growth as a global cricketing power and their ability to adapt to Australian conditions.

The 2020-21 series further cemented India’s position as a Test cricket powerhouse. With a depleted squad and the absence of key players like Kohli following India’s embarrassing show at the Adelaide, Ajinkya Rahane‘s leadership saw India create history by winning the series 2-1. The final Test at the Gabba, where India chased down a steep target in dramatic fashion, broke Australia’s 32-year unbeaten record at that ground, marking a historic moment in Indian cricket.

Also READ: AUS vs IND 2024, 1st Test: Optus Stadium Pi?tch Report, Perth Test stats and records

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced India’s Test squad for the upcoming five-match Test series against the hosts Australia. This tour, commencing on November 22, will see India face off against the hosts in what promises to be a highly competitive series. Rohit Sharma is set to lead the squad, with pacer Jasprit Bumrah appointed as vice-captain.

Key players dropped from the Indian squad for Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25

In a significant shift, several established players from the previous Border-Gavaskar Trophy squa?d have been dropped as selectors made bold changes. Some of these players have either ??struggled with form, faced stiff competition from younger talents, or been sidelined due to returning veterans.

1. Cheteshwar Pujara: Experienced Middle-Order Batter

Pujara, known for his resilie??nce and technique, has been omitted as selectors opt for younger options in the middle order, marking the end of an era for one of India’s most steadfast Test specialists.

2. Shreyas Iyer: Middle-Order Batter

Des?pite his strong potential, Iyer faced a lean patch in recent series and couldn’t recover in time to secure a spot. His inconsistency in the middle order has led selectors to look elsewhere for stability.

3. Suryakumar Yadav: Explosive Middle-Order Batter

Yadav, a dynamic batter in shorter formats, has struggled to ??find? his rhythm in the longer format. The selectors opted for consistency, leaving him out of the squad for Australia.

4. Ishan Kishan: Wicketkeeper-Batter

Known for his aggressive batting, Kishan misses out as the team prioritizes experienced wicketkeepers like KL Rahul and the returning Rishabh Pant, both kno?wn for their Test resilience.

5. Srikar Bharat: Wicketkeeper-Batter

Bharat’s exclusion comes as the team’s wicketkeeping roster solidifies with the inclusion of s??enior players Rahul and Pant. Bharat last played a Test in early 2024, but fierce competition has kept him from the squad.

6. Axar Patel: All-rounder

Patel, a left-arm spinner and handy lower-order batter, couldn’t find? a place in the squad, with Ravindra Jadeja and?? Washington Sundar providing the all-round options in the spin department.

Also READ: AUS vs IND: Sunil G?avaskar predicts the winner, sc?oreline of BGT 2024-25 after India’s whitewash against New Zealand

7. Kuldeep Yadav: Spinner

Yadav, despite his knack for breakthroughs, is left out, with the squad banking on a more bala?nced attack. His omission underscores the preference for finger spinners who offer control over the wrist spin variation.

8. Mohammed Shami:  Fast Bowler

Shami, one of India’s premier pacers, has been rested in favor of emerging fast bowlers. Although he remains a vital part of In??dia’s pace battery, selectors are focusing on fresh faces for this series.

9. Umesh Yadav: Fast Bowler

Yadav, known f?or his speed and bounce, has not made the cut, with India’s focus shifting toward younger pacers who bring versatility and stamina required for Australian conditions.

10. Jaydev Unadkat: Pacer

Unadkat, who made a brief comeback in recent years, has be??en left out as the team prioritizes emerging pacers who bring extra pace and variety in the? Australian pitches.

New additions in the Indian Test squad

India’s squad also sees fresh additions who bring unique strengths to the team. Among them is Prasidh Krishna, an express pacer who debuted in the Boxing Day Test last year. Batting prospect Abhimanyu Easwaran joins to strengthen the top order and emerging talents Harshit Rana (fast bowler) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (all-rounder) also?? add depth, giving selectors a versatile squad for Australian conditions.

India’s Test squad for the 2024-25 Australia tour

Rohit Sharma (c), Jasprit Bumrah (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Sarfaraz Khan, Dhruv Jurel, R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Mohammed Siraj, ??Aka?sh Deep, Prasidh Krishna, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar.

Also READ: Here?? is Virat Kohli’s roadmap for a victorious ??return against Australia in BGT 2024-25

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