Wriddhiman Saha, R Ashwin, and Prithvi Shaw will represent India in the next Test in Adelaide. Umesh Yadav will be the third fast bowler in the team. These were the main questions the Indian team considered before the start of the match.
The uncertainty revolved around whether to back Shaw, whether to include a spin bowler and persist with Ashwin, and which of the wicketkeepers would be selected. Finally, the team resolved these doubts by announcing the lineup.
Shaw, after some less prominent performances, remained in the starting team. Although Shubman Gill performed better in the practice matches, Shaw, as a starting opener, has shown his potential in the past.Similarly, Ashwin, the starting spin bowler, kept his place, especially in the absence of Ravindra Jadeja due to injury. The decision not to include Ashwin in an opening match of the series occurred on the Australia tour in 2014-15.
Regarding the wicketkeeper, India opted for Saha instead of Pant. The coaching staff seems to have considered that the pink ball will require a more solid wicketkeeper.
Yadav was selected as the third fast bowler, replacing the injured Ishant Sharma. His experience and performance in practice matches support him.India’s Line-up: 1 Mayank Agarwal, 2 Prithvi Shaw, 3 Cheteshwar Pujara, 4 Virat Kohli (capt.), 5 Ajinkya Rahane, 6 Hanuma Vihari, 7 Wriddhiman Saha (wk), 8 R Ashwin, 9 Umesh Yadav, 10 Mohammed Shami, 11 Jasprit Bumrah
