AUS Vs IND: Cheteshwar Pujara Picks India’s Ideal Playing XI For The Upcoming Gabba Test

As the iconic Gabba in Brisbane gears up to host the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, cricket fans are brimming with excitement and anticipation. Scheduled to commence on December 14, 2024, this pivotal clash comes with the series tied 1-1, and both India and Australia vying for supremacy. For Team India, the upcoming match isn’t just another contest—it’s an opportunity to redeem themselves after a crushing ten-wicket defeat in the Pink Ball Test at Adelaide.

India’s Mission to Rebound

India’s campaign in the series so far has been a tale of contrasting fortunes. After a strong start in Perth, they stumbled at Adelaide, succumbing to Australia’s disciplined bowling attack and falling short with the bat. This defeat, coupled with their inability to handle the pink ball effectively, has raised questions about the team’s adaptability.

Now, as the action shifts to Brisbane, the stakes are higher than ever. The Gabba’s reputation as a fortress for Australia adds another layer of complexity to India’s mission. The team must not only overcome the formidable Australian side but also conquer the challenging conditions that the venue presents.

Cheteshwar Pujara’s Call for Change

Veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara, known for his meticulous approach to the game, has sparked discussions by advocating a key change in India’s playing XI. Speaking on Star Sports, Pujara suggested replacing Ravichandran Ashwin with Washington Sundar.

Why Sundar Over Ashwin?

Ashwin, one of India’s most reliable spinners, had an underwhelming outing in Adelaide, managing just one wicket while conceding 53 runs in 18 overs. Pujara believes that Sundar’s all-round capabilities could be a better fit for the Gabba.

Washington Sundar’s credentials are undeniable, especially given his heroics during India’s historic win at the Gabba in 2021. In that match, Sundar delivered with both bat and ball, scoring crucial runs under pressure and taking key wickets. Pujara’s proposal to include him in the XI highlights the need for a deeper batting lineup without compromising the team’s bowling strength.

“I feel only one change might happen. Since the batting wasn’t good, Washington Sundar can come in place of R Ashwin,” Pujara remarked.

Backing Harshit Rana

Pujara has also stood firmly in support of young pacer Harshit Rana, who endured a challenging outing in Adelaide, leaking 86 runs in 16 overs. Despite the criticism, Pujara has urged the management to persist with Rana, citing his impressive debut in Perth where he claimed 3/48.

The Gabba’s pace-friendly surface could suit Rana’s style, and Pujara believes he has the potential to deliver impactful spells.

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

Rana’s ability to generate bounce and his knack for unsettling batters make him a valuable asset, particularly on a lively track like Brisbane’s.

The Gabba: Australia’s Stronghold

The Gabba is a venue that has long been synonymous with Australian dominance. Known for its pace and bounce, the pitch has historically favored fast bowlers, creating a stern test for visiting teams.

Australia’s record at the Gabba before Christmas is particularly daunting, with only a handful of teams managing to escape unscathed. For India, the memories of their 2021 triumph at the Gabba—where they broke Australia’s 33-year unbeaten streak—serve as both a source of inspiration and a reminder of the challenges ahead.

The pitch curator has promised a traditional Gabba wicket, meaning India’s batters must adapt quickly to counter the hostility of Australia’s pace attack led by Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood.

India’s Potential XI for the Gabba Test

Based on Pujara’s suggestions and the team’s recent form, here’s a look at the probable playing XI for India:

Top Order

Yashasvi Jaiswal: The talented opener has shown promise but needs to convert starts into big scores to provide a solid foundation.
KL Rahul: After a lean patch, Rahul is due for a substantial contribution at the top. His technique will be tested on the bouncy Gabba pitch.
Shubman Gill: Gill’s flair and adaptability make him a vital cog in the batting lineup, especially in negotiating the new ball.

Middle Order

Virat Kohli: The former captain is the backbone of India’s batting lineup. Kohli’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations will be crucial.
Rishabh Pant (wk): Known for his game-changing abilities, Pant’s aggressive approach could be key in countering Australia’s bowling attack.
Rohit Sharma (c): Leading from the front, Sharma’s experience and leadership will be essential in navigating India through tough phases.

All-Rounders

Nitish Kumar Reddy: A promising young talent, Reddy adds depth to the lineup with his all-round skills.
Washington Sundar: Sundar’s inclusion strengthens India’s lower order while providing a spin option that complements the pacers.

Bowlers

Jasprit Bumrah: India’s pace spearhead will look to exploit the Gabba’s conditions to rattle the Australian top order.
Mohammed Siraj: Siraj’s ability to extract movement and bowl long spells makes him a vital part of India’s bowling arsenal.
Harshit Rana: Backed by Pujara, Rana’s raw pace and bounce could be a game-changer in this Test.

Key Battles to Watch

Virat Kohli vs. Pat Cummins
Kohli’s class against Cummins’ precision is a contest that could define the game.
Rishabh Pant vs. Mitchell Starc
Pant’s counterattacking approach against Starc’s left-arm pace will be a thrilling subplot.
Harshit Rana vs. David Warner
Rana’s bounce against Warner’s attacking instincts promises an intriguing duel.

The third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 is more than just a cricket match—it’s a battle of grit, strategy, and mental toughness. Both India and Australia have tasted victory and defeat in the series, making this encounter a definitive chapter in their rivalry.

For India, the Gabba presents a unique challenge. With adjustments to the playing XI and a renewed focus, they aim to replicate their 2021 heroics. On the other hand, Australia will look to reassert their dominance at their fortress.

As the cricketing world watches with bated breath, one thing is certain: December 14 at the Gabba promises to be an unmissable spectacle.

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