BGT 2024-25: Harbhajan Supports Rohit at No. 6, Anticipates Adjustments for Brisbane Test
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New Delhi, Dec 10 (NationPress) Former spinner Harbhajan Singh shared his insights on Team India's approach for the third Test against Australia and conveyed his belief that captain Rohit Sharma will maintain his position at No. 6 despite an unimpressive showing in Adelaide, where India faced a 10-wicket defeat.
Rohit, who was absent from the initial Test in Perth, had difficulty making a mark in the Adelaide Test, accumulating merely 9 runs across both innings while batting at No. 6. Nevertheless, Harbhajan believes there is no necessity to elevate the captain in the batting order, particularly considering his current form.
"I don't foresee any modifications in the batting order. We discussed yesterday that perhaps Rohit Sharma should ascend the order. Even (Sunil) Gavaskar sahab proposed it, but I doubt the team management will consider that. Rohit is not performing at his best at the moment, so why would you elevate him? I believe KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal should persist as openers, with Rohit positioned in the middle order," Harbhajan stated on Star Sports.
While advocating for stability in the batting order, Harbhajan forecasted modifications in India’s bowling lineup. He proposed the inclusion of Washington Sundar, who showcased his all-round capabilities in Perth, to replace Ravichandran Ashwin.
"Washington Sundar may return for the Brisbane Test. Ashwin did not bowl much in Adelaide and lacked significant impact. Sundar, however, provides more with the bat and performed admirably in Perth, securing two vital wickets. I believe he will be selected," Harbhajan elaborated.
Furthermore, he called for a shift in the pace attack. Harshit Rana, who faced challenges in Adelaide, could be replaced by Prasidh Krishna. "Prasidh Krishna could be quite effective on the bouncy Brisbane wicket. His height and capacity to generate bounce make him a strong contender to substitute Harshit Rana," he noted.
The third Test between India and Australia is scheduled to commence on December 14 at Brisbane Cricket Ground.
