India’s lineup for the second Test in Guwahati underwent a clear, decisive shake-up, driven partly by injury and partly by strategy. Shubman Gill was ruled out due to a neck injury carried over from the first Test, forcing India to look for stability at the top. In response, they turned to B Sai Sudharsan, a technically assured left-hander who has been on the fringes of the Test setup and now gets a crucial opportunity to anchor the innings.
Gill’s absence is more than just a missing name on the teamsheet—he has been central to India’s top-order balance for months. His injury left India without a proven partner in the first few overs, especially on surfaces that reward disciplined batting. Sudharsan, known for his composure and clean technique, is expected to bring precisely that. With conditions in Guwahati known to offer early movement, India want someone who can absorb pressure rather than chase momentum from ball one.
But the second change was entirely tactical. Axar Patel was dropped for Nitish Kumar Reddy, a move that reflects a clear shift in India’s game plan. Reddy provides India with both batting depth and seam-bowling utility—qualities far more aligned with what the team wants at this venue. Axar’s value as a control bowler remains unquestioned, but the surface didn’t demand his skillset as strongly as it demanded flexibility. Reddy, who had been released from the squad before the first Test, was brought back for this match specifically because of his ability to fill multiple gaps.
This selection approach also complements Rishabh Pant’s leadership style. Pant thrives when he has versatile options at his disposal. Reddy’s inclusion gives Pant an extra bowler to rotate and an extra batter to shield against collapses, which India badly needed after the previous match. The change shows not only tactical awareness but a willingness to move away from conservatism when the situation demands it.
India’s moves here blend urgency with foresight. Gill’s absence compelled a replacement—but choosing Sudharsan indicated a preference for stability over flair. Dropping Axar for Reddy makes it clear that India want more all-round insurance in a Test they cannot afford to drift away from them. These aren’t routine changes; they’re deliberate course corrections after a poor outing in the first Test.
For Sudharsan and Reddy, the stakes are high and the opportunity massive. Sudharsan must prove he belongs at this level by surviving the new ball and setting the tone. Reddy must justify the faith placed in his all-round capabilities. If both click, India’s reworked XI could shift the trajectory of the series. If they don’t, the questions will come thick and fast. For now, India have backed fresh energy—and the next five days will reveal whether that gamble pays off.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025