IND Vs AUS 2nd Test: With Rohit Sharma Returning, Who Will Get Dropped?

Rajgeeta Yadav

Rohit Sharma joins Indian team in Perth [Source: @sigma__male_/X.com]Rohit Sharma joins Indian team in Perth [Source: @sigma__male_/X.com]

India stunned everyone with an impressive win in the first Test at Perth, silencing critics who doubted the team’s chances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite a a bit shaky start, where India were bowled out for 150 in the first innings, the bowlers turned the game around by dismissing the hosts for just 104. This eventally gave India a crucial 46-run lead. In the second innings, centuries from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli helped India declare at 487-6, setting a massive target of 534. Australia crumbled under pressure, managing only 238, as India sealed a dominant 295-run victory.

Now, with the second Test at Adelaide looming, all eyes are on the playing XI as skipper Rohit Sharma returns to lead the side. Here’s what to expect.

Who Will Be Replaced When Rohit Sharma Returns?

Indian captain Rohit Sharma missed the first Test due to paternity leave is now all set to open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. This change will likely push KL Rahul down to the middle order, given his adaptability and recent form. Rahul's unbeaten 62 in Perth’s second innings showed his resilience under pressure.

Young opener Devdutt Padikkal, who had a quiet outing in Perth, is the most probable candidate to be left out. Another factor to watch is Shubman Gill's fitness. Gill, recovering from a hairline fracture, missed the first Test but could return to replace Dhruv Jurel in the lineup if fit.

However, it is understood that Gill is likely to miss the two-day practice game later this week. If he doesn’t recover, KL Rahul may bat at number 3 in his place.

Will the Spin Duo Make A Comeback?

In Perth, India opted for Washington Sundar over senior spinners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja due to conditions favoring pace. However, the Adelaide Oval offers more assistance to spinners, raising the possibility of Ashwin or Jadeja making a return.

  • Ashwin’s Case: His previous Pink Ball Test in Adelaide saw him dismiss Steve Smith with a beauty, finishing with 4 for 45. His experience and ability to exploit bounce could prove crucial.
  • Jadeja’s All-Round Skills: Jaddu is known for his batting contributions in overseas conditions, Jadeja might edge out Sundar if the team prioritises a proven all-rounder.
  • Washington Sundar: His 89-run stand with Kohli in Perth showed his value as a batter, but conditions may favour a more specialised spinner.

Probable Playing XI: Rohit Sharma(C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant (WK), KL Rahul/Dhurv Jurel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja/R Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj

India are set to face Australia in the second Test of the five-match series at the Adelaide Oval, starting on December 6, 2024.