3 Changes India Could Make Ahead of Second Test : After a disappointing loss in the first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, Team India now faces a must-win situation as they prepare for the second Test, set to begin on October 24 at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Pune. New Zealand’s dominant performance, particularly from their bowlers, left India with their lowest home total of 46 runs. As the Indian team looks to bounce back, several changes to the lineup are being considered to improve performance, particularly with Pune’s spin-friendly conditions expected to play a significant role.
3 Changes India Could Make Ahead of Second Test
1. Washington Sundar in Place of Ravichandran Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin, who has long been one of India’s most reliable spin bowlers, struggled in the first Test, failing to make a significant impact with either bat or ball. He was underutilized with the ball and was unable to break through New Zealand’s resilient batting lineup despite favorable conditions. Ashwin’s performance, combined with fitness concerns, has opened the door for a potential change in the spin department.
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Washington Sundar, who has been added to the squad, is likely to replace Ashwin for the second Test. Sundar has been in excellent form in domestic cricket, notably scoring 152 in the Ranji Trophy, and is also known for his abilities as a lower-order batsman. His versatility makes him an appealing option, particularly on a turning pitch like Pune’s, where his economical bowling and ability to build pressure could be crucial for India.
Sundar’s all-round capabilities were on full display during India’s historic Gabba Test win against Australia, where he took wickets and contributed valuable runs. His recent form and prior experience make him a strong candidate to add a fresh dynamic to India’s lineup, especially as they seek to level the series. 3 Changes India Could Make Ahead of Second Test
2. Akash Deep in Place of Mohammed Siraj
Mohammed Siraj, though a key performer for India in recent Test matches, struggled in the first Test against New Zealand, managing only two wickets in the first innings and none in the second. His inability to take key wickets allowed New Zealand to build a substantial lead. Siraj’s recent performances at home have not been as strong as expected, and his current form may prompt the team to look for alternatives.
Akash Deep, who has been in fine form in domestic cricket, is a promising candidate to replace Siraj. He recently performed well in the series against Bangladesh, taking five wickets in two matches, and his pace and accuracy have drawn attention. His ability to bowl long spells effectively could be an asset on the Pune pitch, which might favor bowlers who can extract bounce and movement. 3 Changes India Could Make Ahead of Second Test
Although Siraj has been a consistent performer, particularly overseas, his home record has been less impressive, with only 19 wickets in 13 home Tests at an average of 36.15. In contrast, Akash Deep’s recent performances suggest that he could be a better fit for the conditions in Pune, making him a strong contender to join the playing XI.
3. Shubman Gill in Place of KL Rahul
KL Rahul’s form has been a point of concern since his return from injury. Despite his impressive century in South Africa earlier this year, Rahul has struggled to find consistency, and his scores of 0 and 12 in the first Test only added to the worries. His lack of game time and the stiff competition for places in India’s top order could result in him being replaced by Shubman Gill for the second Test. 3 Changes India Could Make Ahead of Second Test
Gill, who missed the first Test due to a neck injury, has been in superb form across all formats of the game and has established himself as a key player in India’s top order. His ability to handle both pace and spin effectively makes him an ideal candidate to open the innings. Additionally, Gill’s temperament for playing long innings and forming partnerships could provide the stability India needs at the top of the order.
In the post-match press conference after the first Test, India’s captain Rohit Sharma hinted at possible changes, particularly regarding Gill. “It was unfortunate that Shubman missed this game, but with the kind of form he has shown, it’s a good sign for the team,” Rohit said, suggesting that Gill is likely to be included in the starting XI for the second Test. 3 Changes India Could Make Ahead of Second Test
India’s Path to Redemption
The first Test in Bengaluru was a wake-up call for the Indian team. Losing by such a large margin at home highlighted the importance of not underestimating any opponent, especially in Test cricket. India’s batting lineup collapsed under New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack, and the bowling department couldn’t fully exploit the favorable conditions. With the second Test taking place on a pitch that traditionally assists spinners, India will need to use this to their advantage and make the necessary tactical changes. 3 Changes India Could Make Ahead of Second Test
The potential inclusion of Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, and Shubman Gill could revitalize India’s squad. Sundar’s all-round skills, Akash Deep’s form, and Gill’s solidity at the top of the order could be key factors in India’s effort to level the series. Pune’s conditions will likely play into India’s hands if they make the right selections, providing a platform to make a strong comeback.
Final Thoughts
3 Changes India Could Make Ahead of Second Test India is under pressure to bounce back in the second Test, and changes in the lineup are expected to play a pivotal role. With the inclusion of players like Sundar, Akash Deep, and Gill, India could approach the game with renewed energy and focus. The spin-friendly Pune pitch offers India a chance to turn things around and keep the series alive. If the right adjustments are made, India’s path to victory could become much clearer, and they may very well return to their winning ways against a formidable New Zealand side.
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