IND vs ENG: India faces a significant selection challenge ahead of the second Test against England in Visakhapatnam, as injuries to key players Ravindra Jadeja and K L Rahul create a selection dilemma for Captain Rohit Sharma and Coach Rahul Dravid.The absence of Jadeja, known for his exceptional all-round skills, and Rahul, a consistent performer across formats, adds complexity to India’s strategy following their unexpected defeat in the series opener.
IND vs ENG: Virat Kohli’s Absence
Compounding India’s challenges is the continued absence of Virat Kohli due to personal reasons. With a shocking loss in the first Test, Kohli’s experience and leadership are sorely missed as the team heads into the second Test in Visakhapatnam.
Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar, and Washington Sundar In the Mix
Selectors have offered Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid a pool of choices to address the gaps, adding three players to the squad – Sarfaraz Khan, Sourabh Kumar, and Washington Sundar.
Potential Replacements
IND vs ENG: One straightforward replacement could be Rajat Patidar, who was part of the squad in Hyderabad, potentially filling Rahul’s spot in the middle order. Another option is Kuldeep Yadav, who might step in for Jadeja, joining R Ashwin and Axar Patel as the third spinner. Intriguingly, India might also consider mirroring England’s strategy from the first Test, playing with only one pacer and opting for four spin choices. This approach could see Mohammed Siraj making way for Kuldeep, while either Sarfaraz Khan or Washington Sundar fortifies the middle order.
Pitch Report ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam
The ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam traditionally offers a batting-friendly pitch, especially in the first innings. With memories of India’s past success at this venue, the team aims to bounce back and level the series.
Anil Kumble Advocates for Kuldeep’s Inclusion
Spin legend Anil Kumble suggests that including wrist spinner Kuldeep in the playing eleven could be beneficial for India. However, he warns about England likely adopting a similar approach, expecting a turning pitch and quicker pace.
Washington Sundar’s Strong Case for Selection
Washington Sundar, a left-handed batter and right-arm off-spin bowler, emerges as a compelling choice for selection. Having showcased promise in his four-Test career, he adds depth to both batting and bowling departments.
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Should Rohit Sharma Bat at Number 3?
Former selector Sarandeep Singh proposes a strategic shift, suggesting that Rohit Sharma could drop himself to number 3, allowing an under-pressure Shubman Gill to open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Former India opener Wasim Jaffer and ex-selector Sarandeep Singh share similar sentiments, advocating for a strategic change in the batting order. They propose Gill and Jaiswal to open, with Rohit batting at number 3 in the upcoming Test.
As India navigates through these selection challenges, the cricketing world awaits the lineup announcement for the crucial second Test in Visakhapatnam against a resilient England side.
Also Read: IND vs ENG 1st Test Day 2: Jadeja, Axar Put India in Command at Stumps