Prasidh Krishna To Replace Injured Akash Deep In IND Vs AUS 5th Test

Prasidh Krishna To Replace Injured Akash Deep [Source: AP and @SPORTYVISHAL/X.com]

India face a major change ahead of the 5th and final Test against Australia in Sydney. Coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that pacer Akash Deep has been ruled out of the match due to a stiff back. Right-arm fast bowler Prasidh Krishna is set to replace him in the playing XI, as per the reports.

Akash Deep played a key role in the first two Tests, claiming five wickets in Brisbane and Melbourne. Unfortunately, he missed out on more wickets due to dropped catches during the matches.

Despite his efforts, the heavy workload of 87.5 overs in the series and the challenging Australian pitches seem to have taken a toll on his back. These conditions are notorious for causing injuries to fast bowlers, especially affecting their knees, ankles, and backs.

Coach Gambhir stated, “Akash Deep is out with a back issue,” during the pre-match press conference.

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Prasidh Krishna Steps In As Replacement

Prasidh Krishna, a right-arm pacer, is ready to step up for the Indian team. Krishna has experience from his debut series against South Africa, where he took two wickets in two matches with an economy rate of 4.64. His inclusion in the squad brings a fresh option for the Indian bowling attack, which will be crucial in the do-or-die situation at Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG).

India trail 1-2 in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Test series. To retain the trophy, India must win the Sydney Test. The stakes are even higher as a victory would keep their chances alive for reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final.

Australia, on the other hand, hold the upper hand and will aim to seal the series with a dominant performance.

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