India Defines its Starting Eleven for the Adelaide Test
Wriddhiman Saha, R Ashwin, and Prithvi Shaw have been selected to represent India in the upcoming Adelaide Test. Umesh Yadav will be the third fast bowler.
Two days before the match, the main questions for India revolved around Shaw’s continuity, the inclusion of a spinner, and the choice of the wicketkeeper.
Finally, on the eve of the day-night Test, the doubts were cleared when the starting eleven was announced.
Shaw, who had been under pressure following Shubman Gill’s good performance in the practice matches, was confirmed as the opener. Although his recent performances, including scores of 0, 19, 40 and 3, raised concerns, the decision to maintain continuity in the lineup prevailed.Similarly, Ashwin, the first-choice spinner, retained his place, especially given the absence of Ravindra Jadeja due to injury. The decision not to include Ashwin in an opening match of a series was previously criticized, suggesting the importance of his presence.
Regarding the wicketkeeper, India opted for Saha instead of Pant. The team seems to have prioritized Saha’s skills as a pure wicketkeeper for this pink-ball encounter.
Yadav, who replaces the injured Ishant Sharma, was selected as the third fast bowler. His experience and performance in the practice match positioned him favorably.India’s Starting XI: Mayank Agarwal, Prithvi Shaw, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli (c), Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Wriddhiman Saha (wk), R Ashwin, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah.
