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As India prepares to host Bangladesh for the first Test of a two-match series, the selectors have announced a formidable squad that blends experience and youth. The team is expected to field a strong batting lineup in Chennai, led by the reliable Rohit Sharma, who will be aiming to continue his impressive form.
India’s best XI for the Chennai Test: Kuldeep Yadav to replace Axar Patel
Top Order:
Rohit Sharma (c): The Indian captain has been in excellent form in recent times and will be expected to provide a solid start to the innings.
Yashasvi Jaiswal: The young left-handed opener made a strong impression with his aggressive batting versus England in the five-match Test series and is likely to repeat the same performance against Bangladesh.
Shubman Gill: Another talented young batter, Gill has been a consistent performer and will be aiming to cement his place in the Test team.
Middle Order:
Virat Kohli: The former Indian captain is always a threat to any bowling attack and will be looking to rediscover his best form make a return in red-ball cricket.
KL Rahul: Rahul has been in good form in recent times and can be a valuable asset in the middle order.
Rishabh Pant (wk): The wicketkeeper-batsman is a dynamic player who can contribute significantly with both bat and gloves. He missed the longest format of the game due to multiple injuries, sustained during a car crash in December 2022.
Also READ: Bangladesh unveils a strong squad for the upcoming Test series against India
Bowling Attack:
Ravichandran Ashwin: The off-spinner is one of the best bowlers in the world and will be expected to dominate the Bangladesh batters.
Ravindra Jadeja: The all-rounder is a valuable asset to the team, providing both bowling and batting options.
Kuldeep Yadav: The chinaman bowler has been in good form and will be a valuable addition to the bowling attack as Axar Patel’s replacement.
Jasprit Bumrah: The world-class fast bowler is a major asset to the Indian team and will be looking to make an impact on his return to red-ball cricket.
Mohammed Siraj: The fast bowler is know for swinging the ball in the early stages of the game and is expected to give his team early breakthroughs.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) men’s selection committee has opted for a balanced team that includes a mix of experienced players and promising youngsters. The inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav, a left-arm wrist-spinner, adds another dimension to the bowling attack, with his ability to deceive batsmen with his unorthodox action.
The series against Bangladesh is crucial for India’s World Test Championship (WTC) ambitions. A win in this series will solidify their chances of playing another WTC final.
Also READ: ICC reveals the date and venue for the 2025 World Test Championship Final
