No Rohit Sharma! Former Australian Cricketer Picks India’s Playing XI For The Sydney Test

As the fifth and final Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 approaches, all eyes are on Sydney Cricket Ground, where Australia will take on India in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to a hard-fought series. With Australia currently holding a 2-1 lead, the final match could determine whether they secure the series victory or India stages a comeback to level things up. The Sydney Test, starting January 3, is pivotal, and with such high stakes, selection decisions have taken center stage, especially for India.

Ahead of this crucial clash, former Australian pacer Damien Fleming, known for his sharp cricketing insights, has shared his thoughts on India’s playing XI for the Sydney Test. Fleming, who has been an outspoken critic of some of India’s decisions during the series, predicts a significant shake-up in the Indian team’s lineup. His bold calls, particularly regarding the exclusion of Rohit Sharma, have drawn attention, as India aims to address their selection struggles and find the right balance to challenge the Australians.

Let’s delve into Fleming’s analysis and predictions, as we look ahead to a thrilling showdown in Sydney.

Fleming’s Bold Prediction: Dropping Rohit Sharma

One of the most controversial and intriguing aspects of Fleming’s predicted playing XI for India is his suggestion to drop Rohit Sharma from the team. This call stems from Rohit’s prolonged struggles with the bat in the ongoing series. Despite his experience and leadership role, Rohit has struggled to make a significant impact, scoring a mere 31 runs in five innings at a disappointing average of 6.2. This poor run of form has raised questions about his place in the team.

Fleming pointed out that Rohit’s form in his last 15 Test innings has been below par, with only one half-century to his name. His inability to get going, whether opening or batting in the middle order, has caused concern. According to Fleming, Rohit’s leadership also came under scrutiny, describing it as “reactive,” which, in turn, has contributed to India’s challenges in the series.

“The word on the street is that Rohit is going to be dropped! He hasn’t looked like getting runs whatsoever, whether batting in the middle order or opening. It is unbelievable to think pre-series, but Rohit coming back after the successful Test has unbalanced this team, and his captaincy became very reactive,” Fleming remarked.

The exclusion of Rohit Sharma would be a significant move, and it opens up the possibility of a more stable top order for India. Fleming’s suggested changes aim to address the lack of consistency in India’s batting, particularly in overseas conditions.

A New Top-Order Combination: Stability and Adaptability

Fleming’s proposed changes to India’s top order are designed to provide more stability and consistency, especially in the demanding conditions of Australian pitches. With the focus on improving the performance of the openers, Fleming suggested that Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been one of India’s standout performers in the series, should continue as the opener. Jaiswal has shown promise with his technique and temperament, making him a reliable choice to open the batting.

However, the most significant change comes with KL Rahul. Fleming recommended that Rahul should move back to his original position at the top of the order, where he was more successful before being pushed down to the middle order. Rahul, who has struggled in the middle order, is a far more accomplished opener, and Fleming believes that this move could bring out the best in him.

In addition, Fleming proposed recalling Shubman Gill at No. 3. Gill, who has shown a high level of adaptability and technical soundness in recent Tests, has been one of the brighter spots in India’s batting. His ability to play under pressure and his solid technique against both pace and spin make him an ideal candidate for the crucial No. 3 slot.

“I’d put Gill back in at No. 3 and move KL Rahul back to opening. With Jaiswal, that is a top three to take to England,” Fleming added, referencing the potential future challenges India will face when they tour England. The changes reflect a more balanced and stable top order, one that could give India a better foundation to compete in overseas conditions, especially against a formidable Australian bowling attack.

The Pacers’ Dilemma: Prasidh Krishna’s Inclusion

India’s bowling attack has been a key area of focus throughout the series, and Fleming pointed out that India’s attack needed fresh energy, particularly in the fast-bowling department. With Akash Deep ruled out of the fifth Test due to a back injury, Fleming recommended that Prasidh Krishna should be brought in as his replacement.

Prasidh Krishna has been in impressive form in domestic cricket and during India A’s unofficial series against Australia A, where he picked up 10 wickets in two matches. Fleming highlighted Krishna’s pace and bounce as a crucial addition to India’s bowling attack, especially in Sydney, where the pitch is expected to offer some assistance to fast bowlers early in the game. Krishna’s ability to generate pace and extract bounce could add an extra dimension to India’s attack, providing much-needed depth and variety alongside the experienced duo of Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Shami.

With Bumrah back to full fitness and assuming the captaincy, India’s pace attack is in capable hands. Fleming also lauded Bumrah’s leadership and his consistency throughout the series. As India’s most reliable pacer, Bumrah has been a constant threat, and with the added responsibility of leading the side, he could play a pivotal role in shaping India’s fortunes in the final Test.

Spin Department: Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar’s Role

Fleming did not overlook the importance of India’s spin department, particularly in conditions that are likely to aid spin as the game progresses. He highlighted the key role of Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar in India’s bowling attack.

Jadeja’s all-around skills have been a major asset for India throughout the series. His left-arm spin has provided vital control, while his contributions with the bat have been invaluable in stabilizing India’s innings. Jadeja’s ability to bowl long spells and create pressure from one end makes him a key player for India, especially in the latter stages of the match when the pitch is expected to take turn.

Similarly, Washington Sundar, with his off-spin, offers variety and an additional option in the spin department. Sundar has shown the ability to bowl tight spells and extract turn when required. His presence adds depth to India’s attack and could play a crucial role in the middle overs, keeping the Australian batters in check as the match progresses.

“If it is a good batting track, they have good spin options, so they’ve actually already made the changes that can help them, as in they’ve got Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar to provide quality spin,” Fleming observed. The balance between India’s fast bowlers and spinners will be key to their chances in Sydney, where conditions could offer something for both departments.

Jasprit Bumrah’s Leadership and India’s Final Push

Fleming also took the time to praise Jasprit Bumrah’s leadership, emphasizing his ability to perform under pressure. Bumrah’s leadership during the opening Test, when India secured a dominant victory, was commendable. His calm demeanor and astute decision-making on the field have been invaluable for India, especially with the captaincy position in flux.

Bumrah’s ability to lead the team, combined with his exceptional bowling skills, makes him a constant threat to the Australian batting lineup. The presence of Bumrah at the helm gives India a solid chance to challenge Australia in the final Test, and his ability to lead by example will be critical in the high-pressure final encounter.

Australia’s Confidence and India’s Last Chance

With Australia leading the series 2-1, they are in the driver’s seat and will look to finish the job in Sydney. The Australians have been in excellent form, with key players like Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, and Pat Cummins leading the way. However, the pressure is on India to deliver a strong performance and level the series.

For India, the final Test represents their last chance to make a statement and salvage the series. The changes suggested by Fleming, including the exclusion of Rohit Sharma and the inclusion of Prasidh Krishna, could provide the team with a fresh approach and the stability needed to challenge the hosts.

Fleming concluded by predicting that while India may make adjustments, Australia’s superior balance and home advantage will likely see them win the final Test and claim the series 3-1. “Bumrah, back as captain like the first Test, will be a constant threat, but I’m backing the Aussies to win it to take the series 3-1 and get themselves into the World Test Championship decider,” Fleming stated.

As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy reaches its climax, cricket fans worldwide will be eagerly watching to see whether India can mount a comeback, or whether Australia will complete the job and move one step closer to the World Test Championship final.

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