Will India Drop Prasidh & Ashwin In Cape Town Test? Sunil Gavaskar Opines
R Ashwin in the 1st Test vs SA (AP News)
As India gears up for the second Test against South Africa at Newlands in Cape Town, former captain Sunil Gavaskar has weighed in on potential changes to the lineup. Gavaskar's recommendations include bringing in Ravindra Jadeja to replace Ravichandran Ashwin and giving Mukesh Kumar the nod over Prasidh Krishna.
In the opening Test, Ashwin had a limited impact, bowling just 19 overs and managing a single wicket for 41 runs. His contributions with the bat were minimal, scoring eight runs and suffering a golden duck in the third innings. Gavaskar suggests that Jadeja, once fit, should reclaim his spot in the team, considering Ashwin's underutilization in the previous game.
Meanwhile, Prasidh Krishna's Test debut was less than impressive, with figures of 1/93 in 20 overs, prompting Gavaskar to advocate for the inclusion of Mukesh Kumar in the bowling lineup.
Gavaskar explained his viewpoint on Star Sports, stating: "My playing XI would be not too many changes. I think Jadeja, once he’s fit, he’ll probably walk back in the team at the expense of Ravichandran Ashwin... and there could be a change in terms of the new ball bowling with Mukesh Kumar coming in place of Prasidh Krishna."
With Jadeja's return contingent on his recovery from upper back spasms, the final XI for the Cape Town Test remains uncertain, but Gavaskar's insights highlight the strategic considerations facing the Indian team.
 "Muskaan Bhatt")
