Wriddhiman Saha, R Ashwin, and Prithvi Shaw have been selected to represent India in the next Test in Adelaide. Umesh Yadav will complete the trio of fast bowlers.
The main questions for India before the match were Shaw’s continuity, the inclusion of a spinner, and the choice of wicketkeeper.
Shaw, who faced pressure after Shubman Gill’s good performances in the practice matches, kept his place. Although Gill impressed figures like Allan Border and Sunil Gavaskar, Shaw, as the starting opener, was backed by India seeking stability.The decision to keep Ashwin was also maintained, especially with the absence of Ravindra Jadeja due to injury. The last time India chose not to include Ashwin in an opening match was on the Australia tour in 2014-15, a choice that drew criticism.
Regarding the wicketkeeper, India opted for Saha instead of Pant. The team seems to have prioritized Saha’s experience in the position, especially with the pink ball and the demands that come with it.
Yadav, with previous experience in Australia, was selected as the third fast bowler, replacing the injured Ishant Sharma. His performance in the practice match, including 3/48 and 1/14, supported his selection.India’s Line-up: 1 Mayank Agarwal, 2 Prithvi Shaw, 3 Cheteshwar Pujara, 4 Virat Kohli (c), 5 Ajinkya Rahane, 6 Hanuma Vihari, 7 Wriddhiman Saha (wk), 8 R Ashwin, 9 Umesh Yadav, 10 Mohammed Shami, 11 Jasprit Bumrah.
