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Big Shake-Up In India XI? Cheteshwar Pujara Recommends Key Swap For 3rd Test

Rajgeeta Yadav

Team India youngsters share a light moment [Source: AP]Team India youngsters share a light moment [Source: AP]

India will lock horns with Australia in the third Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, starting December 14. After a crushing ten-wicket loss to Australia in Adelaide, Team India are looking to bounce back in this all-important match. With the series now tied 1-1, the pressure is on, and veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara has suggested a big change in the playing XI to strengthen India’s batting.

Cheteshwar Pujara Suggests Sundar for Ashwin

Cheteshwar Pujara has suggested bringing in Washington Sundar in place of Ravichandran Ashwin to strengthen India’s batting lineup. This recommendation follows Ashwin’s lackluster performance in Adelaide, where he took just one wicket for 53 runs in 18 overs.

“I feel only one change might happen. Since the batting wasn’t good, Washington Sundar can come in place of R Ashwin. Should someone come in place of Harshit Rana? In my opinion, no. You backed him and he performed well in the first match.” Pujara said on Star Sports.

Sundar, known for his all-round abilities, would not only provide a solid off-spin option but also strengthen the lower batting order. Sundar had been a key figure in India’s 2021 Brisbane win, contributing both with the bat and ball.

Cheteshwar Pujara Supports Harshit Rana

Despite questions surrounding pacer Harshit Rana’s performance in Adelaide—where he conceded 86 runs in 16 overs—Pujara has defended the young bowler. Rana impressed with a 3/48 debut spell in Perth, and Pujara believes he deserves more opportunities.

“He is a good bowler. You cannot drop him just because one match went bad,” Pujara added.

Rana’s ability to extract bounce and pace could prove valuable on the lively Brisbane pitch, making him a strong candidate to retain his spot.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy is level at 1-1 with three matches remaining. If India fails to win the series, their qualification hopes will hinge on the outcome of the South Africa vs Pakistan Test series later this month.