India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, emphasized that the team is focused solely on defeating Australia in the upcoming five-match series and not on the World Test Championship (WTC) qualification scenarios. Speaking at a press conference before the team’s departure, Gambhir stated that India is not concerned with WTC standings or potential paths to the final, maintaining that each series holds intrinsic importance when representing the country.
India, previously in a strong position to reach the WTC final, lost ground after a 3-0 defeat to New Zealand, which allowed Australia to overtake them. For automatic qualification, India would need a dominant 4-0 victory in Australia, although other series results could impact their chances.
“We’re not focused on the World Test Championship,” Gambhir clarified. “Every series is crucial. It’s two strong teams going up against each other, and our aim is to perform well and win the series.”
While India has successfully retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy during the last two tours of Australia, the team faces some challenges this time. Captain Rohit Sharma is likely to miss the first Test in Perth on November 22, as he awaits the birth of his second child, and Virat Kohli has been struggling with form. Additionally, with Mohammed Shami injured, Jasprit Bumrah will shoulder the primary pace duties and will lead the team if Rohit is unavailable.
If Rohit does miss the opener, Gambhir confirmed that Yashasvi Jaiswal would require a new opening partner. Gambhir mentioned KL Rahul and Abhimanyu Easwaran as the main contenders, though both had modest performances in recent unofficial matches against Australia A. Gambhir suggested that Rahul’s 53-match Test experience and versatility across batting positions might give him an edge over Easwaran for the opening role.
“Sometimes, experience plays a key role,” Gambhir noted. “Rahul has the flexibility to bat at the top, number three, or even at number six, which is invaluable for the team.”
