India defines its XI for the Adelaide Test: Shaw, Saha and Ashwin starters

The India team has been announced for the upcoming Test in Adelaide, with Wriddhiman Saha, R Ashwin and Prithvi Shaw in the starting lineup. Umesh Yadav completes the trio of fast bowlers.

Key Decisions for the Test

Before the match, India faced crucial decisions: maintaining confidence in Shaw, the inclusion of a spinner with Ashwin, and the choice of wicketkeeper. Shaw, despite the pressure after Shubman Gill’s good performance in practice matches, retains his place as opener. Despite not having good results in the practice matches, the team decided to give him continuity.

The absence of Ravindra Jadeja due to injury and concussion also influenced the decision to keep Ashwin. The last time India chose not to include Ashwin in the starting eleven was on the 2014-15 Australia tour. Regarding the wicketkeeper, India opted for Saha, known for his wicketkeeping skills, especially in conditions where the pink ball might require a more experienced guardian. Yadav was selected as the third fast bowler, replacing the injured Ishant Sharma. His experience and performance in the practice match support this.

India’s Test Lineup

• Mayank Agarwal
• Prithvi Shaw
• Cheteshwar Pujara
• Virat Kohli (c)
• Ajinkya Rahane
• Hanuma Vihari
• Wriddhiman Saha (wk)
• R Ashwin
• Umesh Yadav
• Mohammed Shami
• Jasprit Bumrah