As India prepares to face Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar series in Adelaide, both teams grapple with strategic decisions that could define the outcome of the pink-ball contest. India leads the five-match series 1-0 after a commanding 295-run victory in Perth. However, the Australians boast an unbeaten record in day-night Tests at Adelaide, winning all seven encounters. Here are the pressing questions ahead of this high-stakes clash:
- Where Will Rohit Sharma Bat?
India’s biggest dilemma is deciding Rohit Sharma’s position in the batting order. Traditionally an opener, Rohit missed the first Test in Perth due to the birth of his second child. His replacement, KL Rahul, formed a record 201-run opening partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal, complicating the selection puzzle.
The management may prefer not to disrupt the successful opening duo, potentially pushing Rohit down the order. One option is for Rohit to bat at No. 3 or No. 4, with Shubman Gill, who returns from a thumb injury, slotting into another middle-order position. While Rohit has not batted outside the opening spot in six years, he has experience in the middle order from earlier in his career.
- Will Ashwin or Jadeja Feature in the XI?
India is likely to stick with Washington Sundar as the lone spinner, leaving seasoned campaigners Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja on the bench. Sundar’s contributions in the Perth Test—two wickets in the second innings and a quick-fire 42 not out in the warm-up game—make his case strong. Ashwin, who has not played a Test in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) conditions since January 2022, may have to wait longer to break his exile.
- Will Akash Deep Replace Harshit Rana?
On debut in Perth, Harshit Rana impressed with three key wickets in the first innings, followed by a stellar spell in the pink-ball warm-up game where he took four wickets in six balls. This performance secures his place in the XI, making a swap with Akash Deep unlikely.
- Australia’s Bowling Dilemma: Hazlewood Out, Boland In?
Australia faces challenges in their bowling department as Josh Hazlewood is sidelined due to injury. Scott Boland is the probable replacement, despite criticism over his inclusion in the pink-ball warm-up game, which some felt gave Indian batters an early look at his tactics.
Another concern is Mitchell Marsh’s fitness. While Marsh has confirmed his availability, he may not bowl, prompting the inclusion of uncapped all-rounder Beau Webster as a potential backup.
- Is This Marnus Labuschagne’s Last Chance?
Once a cornerstone of Australia’s batting, Marnus Labuschagne’s form has dipped sharply. After averaging 59.05 in his first 32 Tests, his performance has dwindled, with just one century in his last 19 matches and an average of 31.75 in 2023.
Labuschagne’s poor show in Perth (scores of 2 and 3) has led to calls for his exclusion. However, his strong record at Adelaide, where he averages 71.75 with three centuries, is likely to earn him another opportunity. Failure in this Test, however, could see him dropped ahead of the Brisbane match.
Conclusion: High Stakes in Adelaide
India will aim to maintain their momentum and extend their lead, while Australia looks to leverage their flawless day-night Test record at Adelaide Oval. With strategic decisions looming large for both sides, the outcome of the match could shape the rest of the series.
