With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy tied and the stakes high, India heads to Brisbane for the third Test against Australia, knowing a loss could jeopardize their World Test Championship (WTC) final hopes. Former national selector Saba Karim has offered his insights on India’s team combination and batting strategy, emphasizing critical adjustments for a comeback at the Gabba.
Rohit Sharma Should Return to Opening
Rohit Sharma, who sacrificed his usual opening position to accommodate KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal, struggled at No. 6 in the Adelaide Test, scoring just 3 and 6. Saba Karim believes India’s captain is most effective at the top of the order and should return to his opening slot.
“Rohit Sharma should have opened in the Adelaide Test. He needs to reclaim his role at the top. India’s priority must be to put up a strong first-innings total—around 340-350—to stay competitive. That’s the only way forward,” Karim said during an interview.
He suggested KL Rahul, who has previously played as a middle-order floater, could adapt well to a No. 5 or No. 6 role.
Ravindra Jadeja Over R Ashwin
India’s spin department also faces scrutiny. Ravichandran Ashwin replaced Washington Sundar in Brisbane but has not delivered impactful performances. Karim advocates for Ravindra Jadeja’s inclusion, citing his all-round ability and disciplined left-arm spin as crucial for balancing the team.
“Jadeja strengthens the batting lineup at No. 7 while providing exceptional control with the ball. He’s been successful in this role before and could help Rohit Sharma manage his pacers better by holding one end,” Karim explained.
Backing Harshit Rana
Harshit Rana, who impressed on debut in Perth with a four-wicket haul, faced a tough outing in Adelaide with the pink ball. Despite this, Karim recommends persisting with the young pacer in Brisbane, where the fast and bouncy conditions could suit his skillset.
“One underwhelming Test isn’t a reason to drop him. Brisbane’s pitch offers pace and bounce, and Rana’s height and ability can be assets. He deserves another opportunity,” Karim remarked.
Mohammed Shami’s Potential Comeback
Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, recovering from injury, has shown promise in domestic cricket but is yet to join the Test squad. Karim suggested Shami could be ready for the fourth Test in Melbourne, pending clearance from the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
“If fit, Shami should be included for the Melbourne Test. It might be too soon for Brisbane, but his experience would be invaluable for the remainder of the series,” Karim stated.
Managing Jasprit Bumrah’s Workload
India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has already bowled 54 overs in the first two Tests and showed signs of discomfort during the Adelaide Test. Karim emphasized the importance of monitoring Bumrah’s fitness to ensure he remains available for the entire series.
“The team management needs to assess his workload carefully. They are in the best position to decide whether Bumrah can sustain through the remaining matches,” he added.
Path to Victory
To win at the Gabba, Karim stressed the importance of solid first-innings batting and a balanced team. “The first innings will set the tone. If India bats well and selects a balanced XI, they can break Australia’s fortress,” Karim concluded.
As India prepares for the crucial third Test, these recommendations could prove decisive in turning the series in their favor.
