BGT 2024-25: Pujara Advocates for Sundar's Inclusion Over Ashwin in India's XI for Brisbane Test
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New Delhi, Dec 10 (NationPress) In the wake of a devastating ten-wicket loss to Australia in Adelaide, India's aspirations to rebound in the third Test in Brisbane are now paramount. With the series at a deadlock of 1-1, the pressure mounts, and experienced batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has recommended a significant tweak to the playing XI.
Pujara is advocating for Washington Sundar to be included in place of Ravichandran Ashwin to enhance India's batting strength and regain momentum in this critical series.
This suggestion follows Ashwin's lackluster showing in Adelaide, where he recorded figures of 1/53 in 18 overs. Although Ashwin is among India's most seasoned bowlers, Pujara feels that Sundar's all-round capabilities could be vital in addressing the team's recent batting issues.
“I believe just a single change might occur. Given the batting struggles, Washington Sundar could replace R Ashwin. Is there a need for someone to come in for Harshit Rana? In my view, no. He has been supported and performed admirably in the first match,” Pujara stated on Star Sports.
Sundar, who was instrumental in India's remarkable victory in Brisbane back in 2021, offers both a dependable off-spin option and a strong lower-order batting presence. By including Sundar, India could reinforce their batting without weakening their bowling lineup. He was a part of India’s substantial 295-run win in the series opener in Perth, where he took two wickets and scored 33 runs before making way for Ashwin in Adelaide.
Despite some concerns regarding Harshit Rana's performance after he allowed 86 runs in 16 overs in Adelaide, Pujara staunchly defended the young pacer. Rana, who impressed with a 3/48 debut performance in Perth, is regarded as a valuable asset despite recent difficulties.
“He is a capable bowler. You cannot drop him based on one poor match. In my opinion, the only change would be Sundar for Ashwin, if the team feels the batting order needs bolstering,” he remarked.
Rana’s speed and capacity to generate bounce make him a strong candidate for the Brisbane pitch, known for its lively conditions.
The loss in Adelaide has also impacted India’s chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Currently positioned third with a points percentage of 57.29, India faces a challenging path ahead. To secure a place in the WTC final, they must win the series by margins of 3-1 or 4-1. Meanwhile, Australia holds the second position with a 60.71 points percentage, while South Africa leads with 63.33.
