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R Ashwin Or Ravindra Jadeja? Gambhir Leaves 'This' Big Player Out For IND-SA Boxing Day Test

Muskaan Bhatt

image-lqkp1hysIND Vs SA (Twitter)

In the imminent two-match Test series between India and South Africa, a pivotal encounter within the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle, former Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has unveiled his anticipated India playing XI. Commencing on Tuesday, December 26, at the SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium in Centurion, the opening Test promises an intense clash.

Gambhir, a respected cricketing voice, advocates for the dynamic opening partnership of Rohit Sharma and the promising Yashasvi Jaiswal. Sharma, known for his prowess as a Test opener, is set to bring stability to the top order, while Jaiswal embarks on his South African debut.

 At the pivotal No.3 position, Gambhir selects Shubman Gill, aiming to fill the role traditionally occupied by the veteran Cheteshwar Pujara. The ever-reliable former captain, Virat Kohli, is slated to assume his customary position at No.4.

The middle order, as envisioned by Gambhir, features the talented Shreyas Iyer at No.5 and the versatile wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul at No.6. The selection of a lone spinner sparks uncertainty, with Gambhir contemplating between Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin. The seam-bowling all-rounder role is entrusted to Shardul Thakur, and Gambhir anticipates the debut of Prasidh Krishna, who is set to join the formidable pace attack led by Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.

Gautam Gambhir's XI vs South Africa:

Rohit Sharma (c), Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja/ R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj

India, with its sights firmly set on a Test series triumph in South Africa, aspires to etch a historic record of winning series in all SENA countries at least once. The team boasts a formidable combination of seasoned pacers and emerging batting talents, complemented by the experience of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The objective is clear – to clinch victory in South Africa and achieve a significant milestone in the team's illustrious cricketing journey.