Team India skipper Rohit Sharma will return to the team for the second Test against Australia at Adelaide. Rohit missed the first game at Perth owing to the birth of his second child. Addressing the swirling speculations, assistant coach Abhishek Nayar shed some light—but not too much—on the team’s plans.
“It’s Too Early to Decide,” Says Nayar
Speaking ahead of India’s two-day pink-ball warm-up match against the Prime Minister’s XI in Canberra, Nayar maintained that the management is taking things one step at a time. “It’s too early for us to think about that,” Nayar remarked during a press briefing. “We are just going to try and take this game and see how it goes. And then maybe come up with plans once we reach Adelaide.”
This cautious approach comes on the heels of a historic opening stand in Perth. KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal put up a record-breaking 201-run partnership. It was the first double-century stand by an Indian opening pair on Australian grounds. However, this has raised an important question: Who should open the innings for India when Rohit Sharma comes back?
Where Should Rohit Sharma Bat?
While Rohit’s return will strengthen the batting lineup, it also raises a selection dilemma. Should the skipper reclaim his spot at the top of the order, or should he slot in at No. 3?
For now, the team has decided not to open the cards. However, some ex-cricketers have been saying that there should be a flexible approach, and Rohit can bat according to the situation of the match.
Abhishek Sharma and Hope for His ‘Captain’ Shaw’s Comeback
Even away from the off-field, Rohit has been making headlines. The Indian captain addressed the Australian Parliament on Thursday. “Australia has always been a special place for us as a team,” Rohit shared, praising Australia’s competitive spirit and vibrant culture.
Team India’s Practice Match against Prime Minister’s XI
The second Test match against Australia starts on December 6. However, before that, the Indian team will play a warm-up match against the Prime Minister’s XI. The game will be played at Canberra’s Manuka Oval. This game will help Team India get accustomed to the pink ball.
India last played a day-night Test in March 2022 against Sri Lanka. Thus, the change from traditional red-ball cricket requires quick adaptation. The game will be a perfect opportunity for Rohit and the other players to regain rhythm and confidence.
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