In a strategic shift for the upcoming Boxing Day Test against Australia at Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), India is set to reconfigure its batting order. Captain Rohit Sharma is expected to resume his role as an opener alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, while KL Rahul is anticipated to occupy the No.3 position, potentially replacing Shubman Gill, who may move down the order.
Rohit Sharma’s return to the top order comes after a series of underwhelming performances in the middle order during the current series. Since rejoining the team for the Adelaide Test, he has managed only 19 runs across three innings, with a highest score of 10. Despite these struggles, Rohit’s track record as an opener remains impressive, boasting an average of 44.01 with nine centuries in 42 Tests.
KL Rahul, who has demonstrated versatility in various batting positions, is expected to bring stability to the No.3 spot. This adjustment aims to bolster India’s top order, which has faced challenges throughout the series. Shubman Gill, who has encountered difficulties with off-stump deliveries, may benefit from a shift lower in the batting line-up, allowing him to regain form without the immediate pressure of top-order expectations.
In the bowling department, all-rounder Washington Sundar is likely to be included, potentially replacing seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. Sundar’s off-spin could complement Ravindra Jadeja’s left-arm spin, providing a varied attack on a pitch that traditionally offers assistance to spinners as the match progresses.
Australia has also announced changes to their line-up. Scott Boland is set to replace the injured Josh Hazlewood, and 19-year-old Sam Konstas is poised to make his Test debut, stepping in for Nathan McSweeney. Additionally, Travis Head has been declared fit and will retain his place in the side.
With the series currently tied at 1-1, the Boxing Day Test presents a pivotal opportunity for both teams. India’s restructured batting order and strategic inclusions in the bowling line-up reflect a commitment to adapt and strengthen their performance in pursuit of securing the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
