There has been extensive discussion regarding the composition of the India XI for the opening Test of the Border-Gavaskar series, with captain Rohit Sharma potentially missing the crucial ICC World Test Championship match due to personal circumstances.
Rohit’s possible absence raises numerous questions about India’s top order, while the injury to key fast bowler Mohammed Shami and the recent impressive performances of spin specialists Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja add further intrigue to how selectors will construct the XI to face Australia starting November 22.
In a recent episode of The ICC Review, Shastri engaged in a detailed conversation with host Sanjana Ganesan, reflecting on the significant choices the selectors are confronting.
Who will open the batting if Rohit is unavailable?
Should Rohit be unable to participate in the opening Test, India has several options, with seasoned batsman KL Rahul and fellow right-handed player Abhimanyu Easwaran likely to partner promising young talent Yashasvi Jaiswal at the opening position.
However, Shastri suggests that moving regular No.3 Shubman Gill to the opener position might be the most strategic choice given the probable bouncy nature of the pitch in Perth.
“That’s a tough decision, and the selectors have options,” Shastri noted.
“You could promote Shubman (Gill) back up the order, as he has opened previously in Australia.
“Otherwise, you may need to consider another option. Easwaran hasn’t performed too well (for India A in Australia). But it depends on how they are batting in the nets, including Rahul. The Shubman Gill option is also viable.”
Importance of net performances
Having coached India to their last Test series victory in Australia during 2020/21, Shastri firmly believes in selecting players based on their performances in the nets prior to a Test match. The Indian cricket icon expressed that he would closely monitor all the batsmen in practice who are vying for a spot in the XI if he were still at the helm.
“As a coach, I consistently observed footwork,” he mentioned.
“Sometimes scoring runs isn’t crucial, but if a player is moving well, and if their feet are agile, then you can assess their game and understand if they have the skill set for those conditions, and if they possess the suitable shots for those types of pitches. These are key factors to consider when selecting a team for overseas matches.
“It’s about matching players to conditions in many instances. Most of the squad will select itself, but there may be one or two situations where you need to dig deep and trust your instincts.
“I would be watching the batters and bowlers intensely in practice because, for me as a bowler, rhythm is crucial. And for a batter, tempo and rhythm again play a vital role.”
Jurel’s composure presents a selection challenge
While Rishabh Pant is almost guaranteed to be chosen as the wicket-keeper, backup keeper Dhruv Jurel has strongly made his case for selection in Perth following an impressive batting performance for India A in their recent match against Australia A at the MCG.
