With Team India gearing up for their upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, set to begin on September 19 in Chennai, the team’s potential lineup is creating quite a buzz. Reports indicate a possible strategy shift, with whispers of a surprising omission in the playing XI. This decision, reportedly spearheaded by captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir, could significantly impact India’s approach to the series.
Fresh from their 4-1 Test series victory against England in March, India is keen to continue their World Test Championship (WTC) campaign confidently. This series against Bangladesh is just the beginning of a packed schedule, followed by a contest against New Zealand and the crucial tour of Australia.
With so much at stake, every decision regarding the playing XI has become critical. The team’s rigorous practice sessions in Chennai have seen players putting in hard work under the watchful eyes of the coaching staff. One of the most debated points is the choice for the third spinner.
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While Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja are almost certain to play, the selection of the third spin bowler has caught everyone’s attention. Surprisingly, Axar Patel, who has been in superb form, might be left out for the opening Test.
#PHOTOS | Ahead of the first Test against #Bangladesh starting September 19, the Indian cricket team led by #RohitSharma seen practicing at #Chennai stadium
Read more: https://t.co/PLqHoIdcDK pic.twitter.com/zqIaVE0e2j
— Hindustan Times (@htTweets) September 17, 2024
Despite his strong Test record, reports suggest that Kuldeep Yadav is being considered for the spot, primarily to add variety to the bowling attack. Kuldeep’s left-arm wrist spin brings a different dynamic than the finger spin of Ashwin, Jadeja, and Axar. Omitting Axar Patel would be a tough call.
His recent performance in the Duleep Trophy, where he scored 86 and 28 for India D, highlights his all-round abilities. With 646 runs at an average of over 35 and 55 wickets at an impressive 19.34 in just 14 Tests, Axar has been crucial to India’s recent successes.
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The team’s management seems focused on balancing batting depth and diverse bowling options. This approach is evident in their willingness to experiment with part-time bowlers, a tactic that has been noticeable in limited-overs cricket during Gambhir’s coaching tenure. Notably, the sight of opener Yashasvi Jaiswal bowling leg-breaks in practice signals this strategic direction.
