3 Players Who Could Make Their Way Into India's Playing XI for Vizag Test

image-lryzvi8uIndian team faces a selection conundrum for the Vizag Test 

As the Indian team gears up for the crucial second Test against England in Vishakapatnam starting this Friday, they face significant challenges.

On Monday, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently confirmed the absence of key players KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja due to injuries, putting the team's depth to a stern test. Additionally, the team is without seasoned campaigner Virat Kohli, and there are concerns over the form of Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer.

In the wake of these setbacks, the attention turns to three players who could be vital in India's bid to bounce back in the series with a win in the Vizag Test. The uncapped duo of Saurabh Kumar and Sarfaraz Khan, along with the proficient all-rounder Washington Sundar, have been named as replacements by the BCCI.

1. Sarfaraz Khan in for KL Rahul

image-lryzwarqSarfaraz Khan (Twitter)

Sarfaraz Khan, who has been exceptional in domestic cricket, is likely to make his debut and take over the critical middle-order role vacated by KL Rahul. His impressive performance in domestic circuits has made him a top contender for the position.


2. Washington Sundar in for Ravindra Jadeja

image-lryzwmurWashington Sundar (Twitter)

Another key inclusion could be Washington Sundar, who might step in for the injured all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. While Kuldeep Yadav is a direct replacement as a spinner, Sundar's all-round abilities make him a valuable asset, particularly for bolstering the lower-middle order. His skills could be crucial, given the inconsistency at the top of the order.

3. Rajat Patidar in for Shreyas Iyer

image-lryzximnRajat Patidar (Twitter)

Another strong candidate, Rajat Patidar might be preferred over Shreyas Iyer. The 30-year-old's formidable form in domestic cricket presents a strong case for his inclusion, offering a potential solution to balance the batting lineup, especially in light of Iyer's recent struggles in the longer format.


Meanwhile, India's core lineup remains formidable, with players like KS Bharat, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, and Mohammed Siraj expected to hold their ground. However, a strategic pivot might be on the cards, with the potential inclusion of Kuldeep Yadav over Siraj, a move that could be dictated by the pitch conditions favouring spin.

India’s Probable Playing XI For 2nd Test vs England: Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar, Sarfaraz Khan, KS Bharat (WK), Washington Sundar, Ravichandran Ashwin, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, and potentially Kuldeep Yadav.