The second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024 is underway at Adelaide Oval, with both India and Australia making key changes to their squads after the opening match.
India, led by the returning Rohit Sharma, has reshuffled its lineup to bring in a mix of experience and tactical depth. Sharma replaces Jasprit Bumrah as captain and is joined by Shubman Gill and Ravichandran Ashwin in the playing XI. These players come in for Devdutt Padikkal, Dhruv Jurel, and Washington Sundar. Sharma, an accomplished batter, is expected to stabilize the middle order. Gill, a versatile young talent, slots into the No. 3 position, while Ashwin, India’s premier spinner, is expected to exploit the pink-ball conditions with precision.
India’s XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma (captain), Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Nitish Reddy, Ravichandran Ashwin, Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj.
Australia has been forced into a change due to Josh Hazlewood’s unavailability after a side strain ruled him out. Scott Boland, known for his proficiency with the pink ball, steps in to strengthen the pace attack. The batting core, led by Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, and Steven Smith, remains intact, with Pat Cummins continuing his leadership role.
Australia’s XI: Usman Khawaja, Nathan McSweeney, Marnus Labuschagne, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, Alex Carey (wicketkeeper), Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland.
The pink-ball Test at Adelaide poses unique challenges, with swing and seam movement being prominent under lights. India looks to build on their strong performance in the first Test, while Australia aims for a spirited comeback with changes in both pace and strategy.
The changes in both teams reflect their strategies for the unique challenges posed by a pink-ball Test match, where swing and bounce play a significant role. India’s inclusion of Ashwin adds depth to their spin department, making them well-equipped to handle both the conditions and Australia’s formidable batting lineup.
Meanwhile, Australia will hope that Boland’s expertise with the pink ball can provide crucial breakthroughs, especially with Hazlewood’s absence. The adjustments from both sides underline the intense competition expected in this Test, with both teams aiming to seize the advantage in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy series.