BGT 2024-25: Pathan Predicts Rohit and Gill to Join India's XI for Adelaide Test, Excluding Padikkal and Jurel
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New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes that the returning captain Rohit Sharma and opener Shubman Gill will be included in the playing XI for the second Test against Australia at the Border-Gavaskar Trophy taking place at the Adelaide Oval this Friday.
The ex-player indicated that batter Devdutt Padikkal and wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel are likely to be left out for the pink-ball Test, as Rohit, who missed the opening match in Perth due to the birth of his second child, and Gill, who sustained a thumb injury, are expected to return to India's lineup.
India commenced their much-anticipated tour in a spectacular fashion in Perth, achieving a remarkable 295-run victory that boosted their chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final.
"I believe that in the Test Match, Rohit Sharma will be back. As the captain, he will replace Devdutt Padikkal directly. Also, Shubman Gill should be part of the squad instead of Dhruv Jurel," Pathan expressed during an appearance on Star Sports.
The former pacer also addressed the frequently discussed topic of opening partnerships, endorsing KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal as the opening duo, with Rohit transitioning to a middle-order role. Rahul and Jaiswal made significant contributions in the opening Test's second innings, scoring 77 and 161 runs, respectively.
"There were many inquiries regarding KL Rahul's batting position. He should open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. Rohit Sharma has experience batting in various positions, so he can adjust comfortably. Given their successful opening partnership, especially after the victory in Perth, it’s wise to maintain it. Thus, Rohit and Shubman Gill will bat in the middle order, with KL Rahul and Yashasvi opening," Pathan stated.
Additionally, he noted that the twilight period will pose the greatest challenge during the day-night Test at Adelaide Oval. "One important aspect worth discussing in the preview is that the twilight phase presents the most significant challenges in a Pink Ball Test Match. Numerous wickets tend to fall during this time. If we manage to navigate through that, this Test Match is ours," the former all-rounder remarked.
