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India will aim to extend their lead in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 as they face Australia in the pink-ball Test in Adelaide starting December 6. With Rohit Sharma returning to lead the team after missing the first Test, significant changes to the batting order might be on the cards. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s stellar opening partnership in Perth has added complexity to team selection. Rohit’s recent form and batting position are topics of debate, and the Indian team management faces a crucial decision.
KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal’s record-breaking partnership
Rahul and Jaiswal created history with their 201-run opening stand in the first Test, the highest ever by an Indian pair in Australia. Rahul’s calm and composed approach complemented Jaiswal’s aggressive style, forming a perfect partnership to neutralize the Australian pacers. Both batters tackled the new ball with skill, displaying patience and resilience on a tricky Perth wicket.
Jaiswal’s stunning 161-run knock showcased his ability to dominate even under pressure, while Rahul’s 77 added stability. Their partnership was instrumental in India’s commanding 295-run victory. With another solid opening stand of 75 runs in the practice match against the Australia Prime Minister’s XI, they have strengthened their case to remain intact at the top.
Rohit Sharma’s experience and role for team India
Rohit’s inclusion brings immense value to the Indian lineup, particularly in the absence of experienced middle-order stalwarts like Cheteshwar Pujara. Despite his struggles as an opener in recent Tests, Rohit has excelled in the middle order, averaging 54.57 at No. 6 with three centuries. His adaptability and leadership skills make him a vital cog in India’s lineup. Moving Rohit to the middle order could provide stability and an experienced hand against Australia’s lethal bowling attack under pink-ball conditions. His contributions in Australia as a middle-order batter further bolster his case for a strategic shift in the batting order.
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India’s opening combination for the pink-ball test against Australia
- Form and consistency in recent matches
Rohit’s recent performances in Test cricket have raised concerns about his ability to provide stable starts at the top. Over his last six Test innings, Rohit has accumulated only 91 runs, including a solitary half-century, indicating a lack of rhythm. In contrast, KL Rahul showcased his resilience and adaptability under pressure in the first Test in Perth. His well-crafted 77, combined with excellent shot selection and temperament against a potent Australian pace attack, highlighted his form. Rahul’s consistency in capitalizing on starts and anchoring innings makes him a reliable opener for the pink-ball Test. - Experience vs current momentum in opening partnerships
While Rohit’s experience as an opener across formats cannot be dismissed—having been one of the most successful batters in recent years – it is KL Rahul who currently holds the momentum. The record-breaking 201-run stand between Rahul and Jaiswal in the first Test has bolstered India’s top order. This partnership, characterized by mutual understanding and complementary playing styles, demonstrated their ability to neutralize Australia’s bowlers early on. Disrupting this combination by reintroducing Rohit at the top could disturb the rhythm and balance established in the series opener. - Adaptability to different roles and conditions
Rohit’s career statistics reflect his versatility, particularly in the middle order, where he averages an impressive 54.57 in Tests. His experience in batting lower down the order, coupled with his ability to play counter-attacking cricket, can be a decisive factor under the unique conditions of a pink-ball Test. Rohit’s technique and composure against the swinging ball could provide much-needed stability and depth to India’s middle order. On the other hand, Rahul has proven his ability to handle the new ball effectively, especially in challenging overseas conditions, ensuring India starts strongly. Retaining Rahul at the top would ensure continuity in the team’s strategy while maximizing Rohit’s utility in the middle order.
